Why This Step Can't Be Skipped
A California county clerk-recorder isn't going to record a quitclaim deed unless the grantor signed it in front of a notary public. The notary's job isn't to review whether the deed itself is correctly drafted -- they're confirming your identity and watching the signature happen, nothing more. No additional witnesses are needed beyond that.
Deeds that show up without a proper notary acknowledgment get handed straight back, regardless of how well the rest of the paperwork was put together.
A California-Specific Detail: the Thumbprint Requirement
California notaries are required by law to take the signer's right thumbprint in their official journal for any deed, quitclaim deed, or other document affecting real property (Government Code § 8206). If the right thumb isn't available, the notary uses the left thumb or another finger instead. It's a genuinely useful thing to know ahead of time -- a notary who doesn't do much real estate work may not have their journal and inkpad ready, which can turn a quick appointment into a wasted trip.
Signing Out of State? You're Usually Still Covered
Getting the deed notarized somewhere other than California isn't a problem, as long as the notary handling it followed the rules of wherever they're commissioned -- California generally honors that. Anything unusual about your circumstances is worth a quick call to your county clerk-recorder before you sign, just to be sure.
Remote Online Notarization: Not Yet Through a California Notary, But Still an Option
California is behind most states here: California-commissioned notaries aren't authorized to perform remote online notarization until January 1, 2030, under Senate Bill 696. That doesn't mean you're stuck driving somewhere in person, though -- an online notary commissioned in a state that already allows RON can validly notarize your California deed, since California recognizes notarial acts performed under another state's own laws. See our online notarization page for how that works.
Notary Stamps and Seals: What to Look For
Look for the notary's name, "Notary Public," the State of California, and a commission expiration date -- that combination is what makes a California stamp or seal valid.
Confirming a California Notary's Commission
California Secretary of State Notary Public Program
Notaries in California are commissioned through the Secretary of State's office. Its site covers how to verify a commission and explains general notary duties and rules if you need more background.