What Do I Need to Sign My Will in District of Columbia?
Witness, notary, and remote online notarization (RON) requirements for wills in District of Columbia.
Frequently Asked Questions
District of Columbia requires 2 witnesses for a will.D.C. Code § 18-103Verified May 30, 2026 Witnesses must be at least 18 years old.
Notarization is not required for a will to be valid in District of Columbia.D.C. Code § 18-103Verified May 30, 2026
District of Columbia allows Remote Online Notarization (RON) for wills.D.C. Code § 18-103Verified May 30, 2026 The notarization can be completed via secure video call with an approved RON provider, without meeting in person. The state also accepts out-of-state RON.
To execute a will in District of Columbia: Find 2 adults to serve as witnesses. Review witness restrictions to ensure eligibility. Keep the original will in a secure location. Sign digitally from anywhere via video call
Generally yes. District of Columbia isn't a UPC state, but its probate code accepts a will that was valid under the law of the place it was signed. Where things get sticky is at probate intake: a foreign will without a self-proving affidavit forces the witnesses to be located and either appear or sign declarations, which delays the case. Re-executing on a District of Columbia form, or adding a District of Columbia self-proving affidavit, removes that step. The document portability tool walks through the recognition tests by state.
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District of Columbia Estate Planning Resources
In-depth guides covering District of Columbia probate laws, trust requirements, and estate planning strategies.
