In the current corporate scenario, the security and veracity of transactions are essential, and the procedures adopted in documents to recognize signature constitute a fundamental routine. Validating the authenticity of signatures guarantees that the signatory is, in fact, who they claim to be, preventing fraud, protecting legal interests and ensuring trust in agreements and contracts.
In this article, we will explain what documents are required for the notarization, detailing each of them and their importance in the legal and administrative context. Continue reading until the end to deepen your knowledge about document management.
The different ways to notarize documents
There are two main types of notarization: authenticity and similarity. Each of them has its specific characteristics and is used in different situations, according to the security need and the type of document in question.
Authenticity signature recognition
Authenticity notarization is the more rigorous of the two types. In this procedure, the notary or his agent certifies that the signature was made in his presence, after verifying the signatory's identity using official documents.
This type of recognition is essential in situations that require a high degree of legal certainty, such as:
- property purchase and sale contracts;
- powers of attorney for handling large financial amounts;
- vehicle transfer documents;
- opening bank accounts business.
By requiring the presence of the signatory, authenticity recognition significantly reduces the risk of fraud and future litigation, providing greater reliability to the process.
Recognition of signature by similarity
In signature recognition by similarity, the notary or his agent compares the signature on the document with the signature previously registered in his documents. files. In this case, the presence of the signatory is not mandatory. This type of recognition is used in less complex situations, where the risk of fraud is lower, such as:
- property rental contracts;
- travel authorizations for minors;
- school statements and documents;
- medical and residence certificates.
Although recognition by similarity is simpler and faster, it depends on the quality of the signature on file and the notary's ability to identify similarities, which may imply less security compared to recognition by authenticity.
Documents required to recognize signature
To carry out notarization, it is essential to present adequate documentation that proves the identity of the signatory. This documentation may vary depending on the type of recognition, as we will show below.
Basic documentation
Regardless of the type of notarization, the presentation of official identification documents is mandatory. Basic documents include:
- RG (general registration): national identity document containing photo, signature and personal data;
- CNH (national driving license): in addition to serving as an identity document, the CNH includes a photo, signature and CPF number;
- passport: nationally and internationally valid identification document, containing photo, signature and personal data;
- professional identity card: for certain professional categories (such as lawyers, doctors and engineers), this document is accepted, as it contains a photo and signature.
Specifics for each type of recognition
For authentication of the signature for authenticity, the physical presence of the signatory at the notary's office is mandatory. In addition to one of the basic documents mentioned above, proof of recent address and the document signature in the presence of the notary or his agent may also be required.
For signature recognition by similarity, the physical presence of the signatory at the notary's office is not mandatory, as the signature will be compared with the one already in the notary's file. One of the basic identification documents and the document to be recognized are required, which must be presented to the notary to compare the signatures.
Before going to the notary's office, it is recommended to check which specific documents are needed for notarization. Each registry office may have slightly different requirements, and being informed avoids setbacks and the need for multiple visits.
The costs involved in notarization
The amounts charged by notary offices are not uniform throughout Brazil. Each state has the autonomy to define its own price tables, within limits established by state laws. This variation may occur due to different regional operating costs and regulations.
Authenticity notarization is more expensive than similarity due to its greater complexity and the time required. In it, the notary verifies the signatory's identity and witnesses the signature, justifying the higher fee, which varies between R$15,00 and R$30,00 per signature, depending on the state.
Recognition of signatures by similarity is usually more accessible, faster and simpler. The notary compares the signature on the document with the one on file, without needing the signatory to be present. Prices vary between R$5,00 and R$15,00 per subscription, depending on the state.
To avoid surprises, it is always prudent to consult the local notary's office about the specific costs before carrying out the notarization, in addition to being aware that these values may be readjusted periodically, as the state price tables are updated.
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How to recognize signature: step by step
Performing notarization is a process that, when well understood, can be simple and quick.
Recognition of signature by similarity
1. Preparation of documents
Make sure you have on hand the document that requires signature recognition and an official identity document with photo (RG, CNH, passport or professional identity card).
2. Go to the registry office
Go to the registry office of your choice. For recognition by similarity, it is not necessary for it to be the same notary's office where your signature is registered, but it is essential that the chosen notary's office has your signature on file.
3. Presentation of documents
At the notary's office, hand over the document that needs to be recognized and present your identity document, if requested.
4. Subscription Comparison
The notary or agent will compare the signature on the document with the signature on file at the notary's office.
5. Payment of the fee
Pay the fee corresponding to the service, according to the values charged by the local registry office.
6. Receipt of the document
After verification and payment, you will receive the notarized document.
For greater convenience, signature recognition by similarity can be done at any notary's office, as long as its signature be previously registered at the chosen registry office.
Authenticity signature recognition
1. Preparation of documents
Have on hand the document that needs to be signed and recognized, in addition to an official identity document with photo (RG, CNH, passport or professional identity card).
2. Go to the registry office
Go in person to the registry office where you want to carry out the recognition. For this type, the presence of the signatory is mandatory.
3. Presentation of documents
At the notary's office, hand over the document to be signed and your identity document.
4. Signature in the presence of the notary
Sign the document in the presence of the notary or his agent, who will verify the authenticity of the signature.
5. Payment of the fee
Pay the fee corresponding to the service, which is generally higher than that of similarity recognition.
6. Receipt of the document
After verification and payment, you will receive the notarized document.
Recognition of document signature via e-Notary
With the advancement of technology and the Scan of services, online notarization has become a practical and accessible reality. e-Notariat is the platform that enables this service in Brazil, bringing convenience and legal security to citizens.
1. Registration on the e-Notary platform
The first step is to register on the platform, accessing the official e-Notariat website and filling in the requested personal data.
2. Notarized digital certification
To use the service, it is necessary to obtain a notarized digital certification. This certification is issued by notary offices accredited on the e-Notariado platform and can be acquired in person or via videoconference.
3. Request for notarization
After obtaining digital certification, you can request notarization directly on the platform. You need to upload the document that needs to be signed.
4. Digital signature
The signatory signs the document digitally using notarized digital certification. This signature is validated by the responsible notary.
5. Verification and validation
The notary verifies the authenticity of the digital signature and validates the document. The entire process is recorded and stored electronically, ensuring security and traceability.
6. Receipt of the document
After validation, the digitally signed document is made available on the platform and can be downloaded by the signatory and other parties involved.
The legal validity of online notarization via e-Notary is guaranteed by the regulations of the National Council of Justice (CNJ) and the Brazilian Public Key Infrastructure (ICP-Brazil). Documents signed digitally have the same legal value as those signed traditionally, as long as they follow established procedures.
For those seeking even more information about the relationship between electronic signatures and notarization, we invite you to check out our article which explains whether electronic signatures can replace notarization.
CEO of Henshin Agency and digital marketing consultant, fascinated by content marketing and an admirer of Japanese culture.
