NYS NYS Notary Signer Identification and Verification 3

Question 1

If a signer is physically unable to sign their name, how may a New York notary handle the situation?

Accepted Answer

The signer may sign with an 'X' or mark, witnessed appropriately, and the notary certifies the mark

Answer

New York allows a person unable to write to sign with a mark; the notary then certifies the mark was made by the identified signer.

Question 2

How should a New York notary handle a signer who appears to be under the influence of alcohol or drugs?

Accepted Answer

Refuse to notarize because the person may lack the capacity to understand the document

Answer

A notary must decline when there is reason to believe the signer lacks mental capacity to understand and voluntarily execute the document.

Question 3

What is the notary's responsibility when a signer presents a name on the document that differs from their ID?

Accepted Answer

Investigate the discrepancy and refuse if the notary cannot be satisfied the person is the same individual named in the document

Answer

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

Question 4

Which of the following best describes 'satisfactory evidence of identity' under New York notarial standards?

Accepted Answer

Reasonable assurance — typically a credible government-issued ID or personal knowledge — that the signer is who they claim

Answer

Satisfactory evidence means the notary has reasonable grounds — through ID, personal knowledge, or credible witnesses — to believe the signer is who they say.

Question 5

A New York notary is presented with a passport from a foreign country with no English text. What is the best course of action?

Accepted Answer

Accept it if the photo clearly matches the signer and the document appears genuine and current

Answer

A current foreign passport with a matching photo is generally accepted as valid identification, even if the notary cannot read the text.

NYS - New York State Notary Exam Practice Test

NYS - New York State Notary Exam Practice Test

NYS NYS Notary Signer Identification and Verification 3