Notarizing a Document in Guam: Step-by-Step Checklist

To notarize a document in Guam (U.S. territory), follow this 10-step process:

1. Verify Notary Authority: Notary must be commissioned by the Government of Guam (not another state/country). Out-of-jurisdiction notarizations require authentication.
2. Document Completeness: All pages present; no blanks; notary certificate attached or included.
3. Physical Presence: All signers + notary must be in the same room at the same time. No remote/video notarization (unless emergency COVID rules reinstated—check current law).
4. Valid ID: Government-issued photo ID with signature & expiry (US passport, driver's license, military ID, Guam ID). Expired IDs not accepted.
5. Signer Capacity: Signer must be alert, sober, acting voluntarily, understanding the document.
6. Notary Records Roles: Notary confirms each signer's name & role (signer, affiant, witness).
7. Certificate Completion: Signer completes notarial certificate (acknowledgment, jurat, copy certification) legibly.
8. Oath/Affirmation: Signer swears/affirms under penalty of perjury that they read, understand, and sign willingly.
9. Signatures: Signer(s) + notary sign the certificate.
10. Notary Seal/Stamp: Notary affixes official Guam notary seal (embosser or ink stamp) with commission expiry.

Where to Find a Notary in Guam

• Banks (Bank of Guam, First Hawaiian, ANZ, Coast360)
• Law firms, title companies, real estate offices
• UPS Stores, mail centers
• Guam Bar Association referral
• Mobile notaries (travel to you)

Fees

• Guam sets max fees: typically $10–$25 per notarial act (acknowledgment, jurat, etc.)
• Mobile notaries add travel fee

If Document Leaves Guam

• May need apostille (Guam Lieutenant Governor's Office) for Hague Convention countries
• Or authentication chain for non-Hague

Bring: Document, valid ID, all signers, payment. Call ahead to confirm notary availability.