California Notary Public Exam Flashcards
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What is the exam and application processing fee for the California notary exam?
$40.00.
How must a notary identify a signer?
Positively, through personal knowledge or satisfactory evidence such as a current government-issued ID.
Can a notary notarize a signature if the signer is not present?
No. The signer must be physically present at the time of notarization.
May a non-attorney notary give legal advice or prepare legal documents?
No. A non-attorney notary may not give legal advice, accept fees for legal advice, or prepare legal documents for others.
When must a notary refuse to perform a notarization?
When the signer appears coerced, does not understand the transaction, or cannot be properly identified.
What must a notary record in the journal for each notarial act?
Date and time, type of act, type of document, name and address of each signer, and the identification method used.
What must the official notary seal contain, and how must the seal and journal be controlled?
The seal typically includes the notary's name, "Notary Public," the commissioning state, and the commission expiration date. The notary must keep the seal and journal under exclusive control and not let anyone else use them.
Can a notary notarize a document in which they have a financial interest?
No. A notary must not notarize a document they are a party to or in which they have a direct financial or beneficial interest.
How long is a California notary public's term of office?
Four years.
Who administers the California notary exam and mails the results?
CPS HR Consulting.
Is passing a written examination required to become a California notary?
Yes — you must satisfactorily complete and pass a written exam prescribed by the Secretary of State.
What is the fundamental role of a notary public?
A public officer commissioned by the state to serve as an impartial witness to signings and to deter fraud.
Acknowledgment vs. jurat: what's the key difference?
In an acknowledgment the signer declares the signature is genuine and willing (no oath, need not sign in the notary's presence). In a jurat the signer must sign in the notary's presence AND take an oath/affirmation that the statements are true.
Which notarial act is used for affidavits and sworn statements?
A jurat — the signer signs in the notary's presence and swears/affirms the statements are true.
What is the passing score for the California Notary Public exam?
70 percent. A score of 70 or more is required to pass.