A Notary Public is presented with a document for an acknowledgment. The signer's name on the document is 'John A. Doe.' The signer's identification, a California driver's license, shows the name 'Jonathan Andrew Doe.' The signer confirms they are the same person. What is the Notary's appropriate action?
- AProceed with the notarization, noting the discrepancy in the journal entry.
- BRefuse the notarization due to the name discrepancy.
- CRequire the signer to provide a second form of identification that matches 'John A. Doe.'
- DProceed with the notarization, but only if the signer signs the document again as 'Jonathan Andrew Doe.'
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. Proceed with the notarization, noting the discrepancy in the journal entry.
Minor discrepancies in names (e.g., abbreviations, common variations) between the document and ID are generally acceptable if the Notary is satisfied the person is the same and makes a note in the journal. The Notary's duty is to identify the individual, not to ensure exact name conformity across all documents.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. Refusal is not necessary for a minor, explainable discrepancy.
- C. A second ID is not required if the Notary is satisfied with the primary ID and the explanation for the discrepancy.
- D. The Notary should not instruct the signer on how to sign the document; the signer signs as they deem appropriate.
Name Discrepancy
When a minor name discrepancy exists between a document and the signer's identification, a California Notary can proceed if satisfied the person is the same. The Notary must document the discrepancy and the explanation in the journal.
- Minor discrepancies are acceptable.
- Notary must be satisfied of identity.
- Discrepancy must be noted in journal.
- Notary does not advise on signing name.
Memory trick: Discrepancies are okay if you verify and document; don't let a small name difference derail the process.