How to Get an Advanced Health Care Directive (AHCD) Notarized in California

Planning for your future health care is one of the most thoughtful steps you can take. One important part of that planning process is completing an Advanced Health Care Directive (AHCD). If you live in California, getting your AHCD properly notarized is essential for ensuring that it’s legally valid and enforceable.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to get your AHCD notarized in California, what the document includes, and why notarization is often the best choice.

📝 What Is an Advanced Health Care Directive (AHCD)?

An Advanced Health Care Directive, sometimes called a living will or medical power of attorney, is a legal document that lets you:

• Appoint a health care agent (someone you trust to make decisions if you can't).

• Specify your wishes about life-sustaining treatment, pain relief, organ donation, and more.

• Ensure your medical care aligns with your values and beliefs.

In California, the AHCD is recognized under the California Probate Code and is widely used in estate planning.

📌 Do You Need to Notarize an AHCD in California?

Yes—but with options. California law allows an AHCD to be either notarized OR witnessed by two adults. However, notarization is often the preferred method because:

• It ensures the signer’s identity is verified by a certified notary.

• It adds credibility and reduces the chance of disputes.

• It’s more widely accepted in hospitals, legal situations, or across state lines.

🧾 Step-by-Step Guide: How to Get an AHCD Notarized in California

1. Complete Your AHCD Form

Start by downloading or filling out an official California AHCD form. These are often provided by:

• Health care providers or hospitals

• Estate planning attorneys

• The California Attorney General’s website

• Online legal platforms

Make sure to complete all relevant sections before meeting with the notary—but don’t sign it yet.

2. Find a Commissioned Notary Public in California

You can locate a certified California notary through:

• Local UPS Stores

• Mobile notary services

• Online directories (e.g., NotaryCafe, 123Notary)

• Hospitals or senior centers (many have staff notaries)

For convenience, consider a mobile notary public who can meet you at home, a hospital, or your attorney’s office.

3. Schedule an Appointment

When contacting the notary, let them know:

• You need an Advanced Health Care Directive notarized

• You have valid photo ID

• You prefer them to come to a specific location (if using a mobile notary)

4. Bring Proper Identification

To notarize an AHCD in California, you’ll need one of the following valid photo IDs:

• California driver’s license

• U.S. passport

• State ID card

• Military ID

• Other government-issued ID with a photo, signature, and expiration date

5. Sign the Document in Front of the Notary

The notary will:

• Confirm your identity

• Watch you sign the AHCD

• Complete the notarial certificate (usually an acknowledgment or jurat)

• Affix their official notary seal and signature

They may also include additional forms like a California All-Purpose Acknowledgment.

6. Store and Share Copies

Once notarized:

• Keep the original in a secure but accessible place

• Give copies to your health care agent, doctor, attorney, and family

• Consider uploading it to your health provider’s digital records (many allow this now)

💡 Pro Tip: Use a Mobile Notary for Convenience

A mobile notary in California can come to:

• Hospitals

• Nursing homes

• Hospice centers

• Private homes

• Attorney offices

This is especially helpful for seniors or individuals with limited mobility.

🔐 Is Online Notarization Allowed for AHCDs in California?

As of now, California does not permit remote online notarization (RON) for health care directives. You must meet with a California notary in person.

✅ Summary: Notarizing an AHCD in California

Step	Action
Fill out AHCD	Complete but don’t sign yet
Choose a notary	Find local or mobile notary public
Bring valid ID	CA driver’s license, passport, etc.
Sign in person	Notary will verify and notarize on the spot
Distribute copies	Share with agent, doctor, and attorney

📞 Need Help Notarizing Your AHCD in California?

If you're in Temecula, Riverside, San Diego, or surrounding areas, Michael White Notary Public offers professional, mobile notary services—including Advanced Health Care Directive notarization. With flexible scheduling, hospital visits, and clear pricing, Michael makes the process fast and stress-free.

👉 Contact Michael White Notary Public today to schedule your notarization.

Tags: advanced health care directive notarization, AHCD California, notarize medical documents, California notary public, mobile notary Temecula, living will notary, estate planning notary