Notarial Certificates and Seal Flashcards

What is the purpose of the notary's signature on a notarial certificate?

Answer: To personally attest that the stated notarial act was performed as described

The notary's signature on the certificate is their personal attestation that the notarial act (identification of signer, oath, etc.) was performed as stated.

Must the notarial certificate appear on the same page as the document being notarized?

Answer: No, a loose certificate page is acceptable and commonly used

A loose notarial certificate — separate from the document — is acceptable in Texas and is commonly used when there is no space on the document for the certificate.

What identifying information must appear on the notary's seal impression for it to be legally valid?

Answer: The notary's name, 'Notary Public, State of Texas,' commission number, and expiration date

Texas Government Code §406.013 requires the seal to include the notary's name, the phrase 'Notary Public, State of Texas,' the commission number, and the commission expiration date.

Under Texas law, can a notary use their seal on a blank piece of paper with no document attached?

Answer: No, the notary's seal must always be applied to an actual document with a completed certificate

Applying a notary seal to a blank page or incomplete certificate is a serious violation that enables document fraud and is strictly prohibited.

What is required for a Texas notarial certificate to be considered complete and valid?

Answer: The fully completed certificate language, notary's signature, and official seal

A valid Texas notarial certificate requires three elements: the completed certificate language, the notary's handwritten signature, and the official seal impression.

When must a Texas notary complete the notarial certificate — before or after the signer appears?

Answer: After the notarial act is performed and the signer has appeared

The notarial certificate must be completed after the notarial act is performed — after the signer has appeared, been identified, and the act has taken place.