California Notary Public ExamJournal RequirementsMedium
A Notary Public is completing a journal entry for a power of attorney. The signer is unable to provide a thumbprint due to a physical disability that prevents the use of either thumb. What must the Notary Public record in the journal entry regarding the thumbprint requirement?
- ARequire the signer to provide an alternative form of biometric identification.
- BLeave the thumbprint section blank, as it cannot be obtained.
- CWrite 'Unable to obtain due to physical disability' in the thumbprint section.
- DObtain a thumbprint from another finger, such as the index finger, and note it.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. Write 'Unable to obtain due to physical disability' in the thumbprint section.
California Notary law provides specific guidance for situations where a thumbprint cannot be obtained due to physical inability. The Notary must make a notation in the journal entry explaining why the thumbprint was not obtained.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Alternative biometric identification is not a current requirement or option under California Notary law for this situation.
- B. Leaving it blank does not provide the required explanation.
- D. The law specifically requires a thumbprint; an alternative finger is not a substitute unless the thumb is unusable.
Thumbprint Exception (Physical Inability)
If a signer is physically unable to provide a thumbprint for a required journal entry, the Notary Public must record a detailed explanation of the inability in the journal.
- Applies to physical inability, not refusal.
- A written explanation in the journal is required.
- Must state the reason for inability (e.g., missing thumb, injury).
Memory trick: Can't print? Write the reason and don't sprint!