Back-to-School!

Back-to‑School in DC: What Parents Need Notarized? And How to Make It Easy!

//AUGUST 2025//

New school year, new forms! If you’re a parent, guardian, or caregiver in the District, August often means a stack of paperwork—some of which may require a notarized signature. Here’s a quick, practical guide to what might need notarization, how to prepare, and how District Same Day can help you get it done fast & without a trip across town.

What you'll need if you have a:

Field trip coming up?: Permission/waiver + medical consent, IDs for signing parent/guardian.

Child traveling without both parents?: Notarized travel consent letter (+ passport DS‑3053 if applicable), copies of IDs.

New school with residency requirements?: Residency affidavit (if needed), supporting proof (lease, utility, letter from landlord), photo ID.

After‑school/caregiver support?: Caregiver authorization + consent to treat a minor, caregiver’s ID.

College departure?: FERPA release, limited POA (if desired), housing/internship forms.

Why does this matter for kids?

A notarized document confirms the signer’s identity and willingness to sign—reducing fraud and preventing delays when schools, leagues, or agencies verify paperwork. In short: notarization helps your forms get accepted the first time.

Other common school-related documents that need a notarization:

1) Medical Authorization to Treat a Minor

2) Consent for Domestic & International Field Trips 

3) Guardianship / Caregiver Designations

4) Sports, Clubs & Leagues

5) Housing & General Powers of Attorney for College‑Bound Teens

How can you prep for a smooth notarization?

Bring valid, unexpired ID for ALL signer(s). 

Complete forms in advance—but don’t sign. 

Know who needs to be present. If a second parent or caregiver must sign, coordinate ahead of time.

Witnesses: If your document requires witnesses, confirm how many and whether you’ll bring your own or will need them provided.

Have any supporting documents handy (custody orders, proof of residency, itinerary, etc.), in case the school or agency asks for them later.

Ready to book?

If you’re unsure whether your form needs to be notarized, send us a quick photo (no signatures shown) and we’ll advise you on next steps.

Whether you need one seal or a stack of school forms notarized, we’ll meet you where you are and keep it simple.

{Please note: Washington, DC currently does not allow Remote Online Notarization (RON). The good news: we’re mobile. District Same Day Notary comes to your home, office, campus, or favorite coffee shop—often same‑day, evenings, and weekends.}