What Do I Need to Sign My Will in California?

Notarization is not required for a will to be valid in California.Cal. Prob. Code § 6110Verified Jul 15, 2026

California has authorized Remote Online Notarization for many documents, but wills are specifically excluded.Cal. Prob. Code § 6110Verified Jul 15, 2026 In-person notarization is required.

To execute a will in California: Find 2 adults to serve as witnesses. Review witness restrictions to ensure eligibility. Keep the original will in a secure location. Wet signature and in-person signing required

Yes. California hasn't adopted the Uniform Probate Code, but it recognizes a will validly executed under another state's law as long as the will was valid where signed. The practical wrinkle is the self-proving affidavit — if the foreign will doesn't have one, witnesses may need to testify during probate. A California-specific will sidesteps that. The document portability tool shows the recognition rule by document type.