Utah Notary Practice Test

Is it acceptable for a notary to only stamp and sign a document without including notary language?

1. Yes, it is acceptable

2. Only in certain circumstances

3. No, this is not acceptable

4. It depends on the document type

The correct answer is: No, this is not acceptable

In the practice of notary services, it is essential that notaries follow specific legal requirements that govern their actions. When a notary stamps and signs a document, they must also include appropriate notarial language to ensure the validity and legality of the notarization. This language typically describes the type of notarial act being performed, such as "acknowledged" or "witnessed," and includes details about the signatories involved. The inclusion of notary language serves several important purposes. Firstly, it clarifies the role of the notary and the nature of the notarization, which helps prevent misunderstandings or disputes about the document's authenticity. Secondly, it complies with state laws and regulations governing notarial acts, which often stipulate that notary language must be present for the notarization to be legally binding. If this language is omitted, the notarization may be deemed incomplete or invalid, rendering the document ineffective for its intended purpose. As a result, stamping and signing without including the required notary language does not comply with these standards, making it unacceptable in virtually all situations.