How to Say "notary" in Spanish
The Spanish word for “notary” is “notario” — B1 level.
Examples
El notario tiene que firmar el contrato.
The notary has to sign the contract.
Mañana vamos al notario para completar la compra de la casa.
Tomorrow we are going to the notary to complete the house purchase.
El notario dio fe de que el documento era una copia fiel del original.
The notary certified that the document was a true copy of the original.
Using 'al' with Notario
When you say you are going to the notary's office, Spanish speakers often just say 'voy al notario' (I'm going to the notary) instead of 'voy a la oficina'.
People vs. Places
Remember that 'notario' is the person (the official), while 'notaría' is the physical office where they work.
The 'Notary Public' Trap
Mistake: “Assuming a Spanish 'notario' is the same as a US 'notary public'.”
Correction: In Spanish-speaking countries, a notario is a powerful, high-ranking lawyer. Don't treat their office like a simple 'stamp shop' at a bank.
Learn Spanish with Inklingo
Interactive stories, personalized learning, and more.