Signing Requirements
The advance directive must be acknowledged by a notary public or signed by two witnesses.[1] The following individuals may not serve as witnesses[2]:
- The health care agent
- The owner or staff of a senior living institution
- The owner or staff of a community care facility
- Any health care provider or employee caring for the patient
Furthermore, if a patient in a skilled nursing facility executes a written advance health care directive, it is not effective unless a patient advocate or ombudsman signs it as a witness.[3]
Revocation
Registering
Individuals may elect to register their advance health care directive with the Secretary of State by[5]:
- Completing the Registration of Written Advance Health Care Directive form.
- Attach a copy of the Advance Health Care Directive form or indicate if the document provides the form’s location.
- Attach a check payable to the Secretary of State with the appropriate filing fee.
- Mail everything to:
Secretary of State
Special Filings Unit
P.O. Box 942870
Sacramento, CA
94277-2870
Registration of organ and tissue preferences is done via the Donate Life California online portal.