Ohio Notary Practice Exam

What does the term 'Signature by Mark' imply?

1. The signer uses a digital signature

2. The signer uses a physical mark instead of a signature

3. The signer writes their name fully

4. The signer must have a witness sign first

The correct answer is: The signer uses a physical mark instead of a signature

The term 'Signature by Mark' refers specifically to the situation where an individual is unable to sign their name in the traditional manner due to various reasons, such as illness or incapacity. In such cases, the individual may make a physical mark—like a cross (X) or another symbol—as a representation of their intention to sign a document. This practice is legitimate and is recognized in legal contexts, specifically allowing those who cannot write to nonetheless authenticate or signify their consent or agreement to the contents of a document. It's crucial that this mark is acknowledged properly, often requiring a witness to validate that the mark signifies the individual's intent. The other options illustrate different aspects of signing or methods of signing but do not capture the essence of 'Signature by Mark.' Digital signatures and fully written names represent different practices, and the requirement for a witness does not inherently define what a 'Signature by Mark' is but rather is a procedural step that may accompany its use.