California Notary Public ExamJournal RequirementsEasy

A California Notary Public performs an acknowledgment for a document signed by a client. Which of the following entries is NOT required in the Notary Public's journal for this notarial act?

  1. AThe signature of the person whose signature is being acknowledged.
  2. BThe fee charged for the service.
  3. CThe character of every instrument acknowledged or proved.
  4. DThe type of identification used to verify the signer's identity.
Show answer & explanation

Correct answer: C. The character of every instrument acknowledged or proved.

California Government Code Section 8206 specifies the mandatory journal entries. While the type of instrument is required, its 'character' is not a specific, separate mandated entry.

Why the other options are wrong

  • A. The signature of the person whose signature is being acknowledged is a mandatory journal entry.
  • B. The fee charged is a mandatory journal entry.
  • D. The type of identification used is a mandatory journal entry.

Journal Entry Requirements (Acknowledgment)

Specific details mandated by California law to be recorded in the Notary Public's journal for each notarial act, ensuring accountability and preventing fraud.

  • Date and time of the act
  • Character of every notarial act
  • Fee charged
  • Type of identification
  • Signature of the signer

Memory trick: Remember 'DATE-FITS' for journal entries: Date, Act Type, Time, Fee, ID, Thumbprint, Signer.

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