Ace the Ohio Notary Exam by practicing with real exam questions. Get instant feedback, detailed explanations, and study tips on Examzify. Start your journey to becoming a certified Ohio notary today!

Each practice test/flash card set has 50 randomly selected questions from a bank of over 500. You'll get a new set of questions each time!

Practice this question and more.


If a signer is unsure about the type of certificate they need, what should the notary do?

  1. Choose for them

  2. Advise them to consult an attorney

  3. Explain options and let them choose

  4. Refuse to notarize

The correct answer is: Explain options and let them choose

The correct answer is to explain the options and let them choose. In a notarial setting, it is essential for the notary to maintain a neutral stance while providing general information about the types of certificates available. This approach allows the signer to have an understanding of their choices without the notary overstepping their bounds by providing specific legal advice or making decisions for them. Notaries are not authorized to choose the type of certificate for the signer, as each certificate serves different purposes that align with the signer's specific needs or the requirements of the institution involved. By explaining the available options, the notary helps empower the signer to make an informed decision while ensuring that the process is compliant with notarial laws. Encouraging the signer to consult an attorney is valid if they need legal advice, but the notary should focus on helping them understand their choices without directly steering them toward seeking legal counsel unless the circumstances warrant it. Refusing to notarize would not be appropriate unless the signer does not meet the requirements for notarization, as this would deny them access to the services they are entitled to.