California Notary License Practice Exam

What action is a notary prohibited from?

1. Notarizing a document during a public holiday

2. Notarizing in a different state

3. Notarizing a document in which they are a mortgagor

4. Charging more than the state-regulated fee

The correct answer is: Notarizing a document in which they are a mortgagor

Notaries are prohibited from notarizing a document in which they are a mortgagor because it creates a conflict of interest. A notary should not have any personal involvement in the document they are notarizing in order to remain neutral and impartial. Option A is incorrect because notarizing documents during a public holiday is not prohibited, but it may not be practical due to the closure of government offices or banks. Option B is incorrect because notaries are typically limited to performing notarial acts within the state in which they are commissioned. Some states may allow a notary to perform out-of-state notarizations, but this must be done in accordance with the laws and regulations of both states. Option D is incorrect because notaries are allowed to charge the state-regulated fee for their services, but they cannot charge more than that amount. Charging excessive fees is considered unethical and