What Do I Need to Sign My Healthcare Proxy in California?
Witness, notary, and remote online notarization (RON) requirements for healthcare proxies in California.
Frequently Asked Questions
California requires 2 witnesses for a healthcare proxy.Cal. Prob. Code § 4673Verified Jul 15, 2026 Witnesses cannot be: The person named as your healthcare agent, Your healthcare provider, Healthcare facility employees, Healthcare facility owners/operators. Witnesses must be at least 18 years old.
In California, notarization can serve as an alternative to witnesses for a healthcare proxy.Cal. Prob. Code § 4673Verified Jul 15, 2026 Either witnesses or notarization satisfies the execution requirements.
California allows Remote Online Notarization (RON) for healthcare proxies.Cal. Prob. Code § 4673Verified Jul 15, 2026 The notarization can be completed via secure video call with an approved RON provider. The state also accepts out-of-state RON.
To execute a healthcare proxy in California: Find 2 adults to serve as witnesses. Review witness restrictions to ensure eligibility. Get the document notarized (standard practice, not required). Whether the 2 required witnesses may attend by video is unresolved
Yes. California has an explicit reciprocity statuteCal. Prob. Code § 4676Verified Jul 15, 2026: a healthcare directive executed in another state is honored in California if it was valid where signed or valid under the principal's domicile law. California recognizes advance healthcare directives executed in another state if valid where executed or if it complies with California law per § 4676. (Former § 4606 repealed 2000.) The document portability tool covers reciprocity rules in detail.
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California Estate Planning Resources
In-depth guides covering California probate laws, trust requirements, and estate planning strategies.
