[IL] How do I get a POA for a vehicle notarized, and can it be done online?

Lexi, Chatbot

I understand that you need to get a document notarized, which can be important for many situations. What type of document are you looking to have notarized?

Lexi, Chatbot

Are you located in a specific state or region where the notarization needs to take place?

Jon

Is there anything else the Lawyer should know before I connect you? Rest assured they'll be able to help with your power of attorney.

Jon

Hello and thank you for reaching out. I’m Jon, a licensed attorney with over 13 years of experience, here to help. Legal matters can feel overwhelming, but you’re in good hands. I’ll make sure things are clear and guide you toward the best solution for your situation.

You need to get a POA notarized?

Jon

Understood! I believe I have all the information I need. Is there anything else you'd like to add before I start working on your answer? If not, I’ll get started right away.

Jon

Got it! Just need a few minutes to finish typing a full response for you. It won’t take long—about 4 or 5 minutes—because I want to make sure it’s thorough and thoughtful. Thanks for your patience!

Jon

Getting a Power of Attorney (POA) for a vehicle in Illinois involves a few key steps to make sure it’s legally valid. First, the document must be notarized, which means you need to sign it in front of a notary public. You also need at least one witness to sign the document, and the notary cannot act as that witness.

Unlike some other states, Illinois requires this notarization to be done in person for vehicle-related POAs, so electronic notarization isn’t allowed in these cases.

The POA itself needs to clearly list the full legal names and contact information of both the person giving the power (the principal) and the person receiving it (the agent). It should include a detailed description of the vehicle—its make, model, year, and VIN—and spell out exactly what powers the agent has, such as transferring the title, registering the vehicle, or handling sales.

The document should also note when the POA starts and how it can be ended. To make things easier, the Illinois Secretary of State offers an official form, Form RT-5, which helps ensure everything is correct.

Finding a notary in Illinois is usually straightforward. You can go to banks, credit unions, UPS stores, law offices, real estate firms, public libraries, or government offices. Usually, your own bank or credit union will do that for free. The cost to get a document notarized at a UPS Store typically ranges from $10 to $15 per signature. Public libraries typically offer notary services free of charge or at a low cost ($5 or less).

If traveling is difficult, many notaries offer mobile services and can come to your home, a hospital, or a nursing home. You can locate mobile notaries online or by searching for “mobile notary Illinois.” The state sets the maximum fee for a standard notarial act at $5, but mobile notaries can charge extra for travel. A mobile notary may charge up to $75 for their services.

This process ensures your vehicle POA is fully valid and recognized under Illinois law.

Jon

I'm sorry, but we do not offer notarization services here, and Illinois law does not accept electronic notarization. But if you have any questions or need further assistance, feel free to ask!