Notary fees in the United States typically range from $10 to $20 per transaction, depending on the state and specific notarial services required. Some states enforce fixed rates, while others allow notaries to set their own charges within legal limits. Common additional costs may include fees for certification, mobile services, or complex documents.

The variation in notary fees stems from state-specific regulations, cost-of-living differences, and notary compensation standards. For instance, the National Notary Association (NNA) 2023 report highlights an average fee of $15.50 per notarization nationwide. States like California ($15–$20) and New York ($15) often charge higher rates due to higher living costs, whereas Florida ($10) and Texas ($12) maintain lower fees. Mobile notaries typically add $10–$30 for travel expenses, as noted by the NNA. Additionally, 46 states cap notary fees, ensuring affordability while covering operational costs like background checks and insurance. Data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics also confirms that notaries earn an average of $19.50 per hour, aligning with per-transaction fees when accounting for time spent. These rates balance regulatory compliance with market demand, ensuring accessibility while supporting notary professionals. The consistency in pricing across most states reflects efforts to standardize services, though outliers like Alaska ($25) and Hawaii ($20) reflect unique economic conditions. Ultimately, notary fees in the U.S. are designed to be transparent, reasonable, and consistent with broader consumer protection and labor market dynamics.