Ohio Notary Practice Exam

In order to effectively perform their role, a notary must always accomplish which of the following?

1. Ensure all signers understand the document

2. Attract multiple signers

3. Verify the identity of each signer

4. Prepare the document ahead of time

The correct answer is: Verify the identity of each signer

The correct answer centers on the critical responsibility of a notary to verify the identity of each signer. This is a fundamental duty that helps ensure that the individuals signing a document are who they claim to be, which prevents fraud and maintains the integrity of the notarization process. By confirming identities through valid identification documents, notaries help affirm the authenticity of the signatures and the legitimacy of the transaction or agreement being notarized. While understanding the document is important for the parties involved, it is not explicitly mandated by notary law that a notary must ensure comprehension. Attracting multiple signers isn't a responsibility of the notary, as their role is not to facilitate business or encourage multiple parties to sign. Preparing documents ahead of time is typically not part of a notary's function, as they must remain impartial and should not alter or prepare the substantive content of documents being notarized.