Notary Public Requirements Flashcards

What is the main purpose of keeping a notary journal, even where it is not required?

Answer: To create a record of notarial acts that can serve as evidence and deter fraud

A journal documents each notarization and protects both the public and the notary if questions come up later.

When a signer must personally appear before a notary, what does this mean for a traditional (non-remote) notarization?

Answer: The signer must be physically present with the notary at the time of notarization

Traditional notarization requires the signer to be physically present before the notary.

What must a notary generally complete before performing remote online notarizations (RON) in states that allow them?

Answer: Register or get authorization for RON with the state and use an approved technology platform

States that authorize RON usually require separate registration or authorization, training in some states, and compliant technology.

In most states, which notarial act requires the signer to swear or affirm that the document's contents are true?

Answer: Jurat

A jurat requires the signer to sign in front of the notary and take an oath or affirmation about the truth of the contents.

What does a signer declare in an acknowledgment?

Answer: That they signed the document voluntarily and are who they claim to be

An acknowledgment confirms the signer's identity and that they signed willingly, not that the contents are true.

Which is generally the best form of satisfactory evidence of identity?

Answer: A current government-issued photo ID with a signature and physical description

States generally accept current government-issued photo IDs, such as a driver's license or passport, as satisfactory evidence.

When a signer has no acceptable ID, many states allow identification through which method?

Answer: One or more credible identifying witnesses under oath

Credible witnesses who know the signer, and who are known to or identified by the notary, can vouch for identity under oath.