Ohio Notary Practice Exam

What is the first step in certifying an affidavit?

1. Have the affiant sign the affidavit

2. Administer an oath or affirmation to the affiant

3. Complete and execute the certification on the instrument

4. Notarize the document

The correct answer is: Administer an oath or affirmation to the affiant

Providing an oath or affirmation to the affiant is the first step in certifying an affidavit because it ensures the affiant is aware of and willing to provide truthful information in the document. Option A, having the affiant sign the affidavit, is not the first step as the affiant may not understand the significance of their signature without an oath or affirmation. Option C, completing and executing the certification on the document, is not the first step as it cannot be done without first administering an oath or affirmation. Option D, notarizing the document, is not the first step as it is not always necessary for certifying an affidavit and cannot be done without an oath or affirmation. Therefore, option B is the correct choice as it is the necessary initial step for certifying an affidavit.