NYS Study Guide 2026

Everything you need to pass the NYS exam in one place: the exam format, every topic to study, real practice questions with explanations, flashcards, and full-length practice tests. Free, no sign-up needed.

📋 NYS Exam Format at a Glance

40
Questions
60 min
Time Limit
70%
Passing Score

📚 NYS Topics to Study (43)

✍️ Sample NYS Questions & Answers

1. A document notarized by a licensed New Jersey notary is presented for recording at a New York county clerk's office. Under what general principle may it be accepted?
It may be accepted if it complies with New Jersey's laws and New York's recognition requirements

New York generally recognizes notarizations performed by properly commissioned notaries in other states if the act complied with the laws of that state, under principles of comity and interstate recognition.

2. Can a New York notary administer an oath over the telephone?
No, the notary and signer must be in the same physical location unless using approved remote notarization

Traditional notarial oaths require the notary and affiant to be in each other's presence, with remote notarization being the only approved exception.

3. What is the primary purpose of signer identification in a New York notarial act?
To verify that the person signing the document is who they claim to be

Identification ensures the notary can confirm the signer's identity, which is a foundational requirement for a valid notarization.

4. What is the notary's responsibility when a signer presents a name on the document that differs from their ID?
Investigate the discrepancy and refuse if the notary cannot be satisfied the person is the same individual named in the document

A name discrepancy requires the notary to investigate; if not resolved, the notary should decline to avoid potentially notarizing a fraudulent act.

5. A New York notary public who fraudulently uses their commission may be subject to:
Criminal prosecution under Executive Law §135-a

Fraudulent use of a notarial commission is a criminal offense under Executive Law §135-a.

6. A New York resident who is currently a licensed attorney in New York may obtain a notary commission:
By submitting the application without taking the examination

Licensed New York attorneys are exempt from the notary examination and may apply directly.

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NYS Study Guide 2026 — Exam Format, Topics & Practice Questions