Requirements for Notarization of Documents

7/15/2023 | Updated 10/06/2024 | JTD

The notarization of documents in the Philippines is governed by the 2004 Rules on Notarial Practice (A.M. No. 02-08-13-SC), which provides the following requirements:

1. The personal appearance of the affiant/principal and witnesses before the notary public.

2. Original copies of the document(s) to be notarized.

3. The presentation of at least one identification card issued by an official agency, bearing the signature and photograph of the affiant/principal. Acceptable IDs include, but are not limited to, the following:

   • Passport

   • Driver’s License

   • PRC ID

   • NBI Clearance

   • Postal ID

   • Voter’s ID

   • GSIS e-Card

   • SSS ID

   • UMID

   • PhilHealth Card

   • Senior Citizen ID

   • Alien Certificate of Registration Card

If the affiant/principal does not have a valid ID, notarization can proceed if:

• A third person, who is personally known to the notary public and who personally knows the affiant/principal, provides an oath or affirmation; OR

• Two witnesses, each of whom personally knows the affiant/principal, present valid IDs and provide an oath or affirmation before the notary public.

2004 Rules on Notarial Practice (A.M. No. 02-08-13-SC)