In the past I have completed the notarial certificate wording with the phrase “Notary Public in and for the State of California,” so I was surprised when one of my notarizations was rejected. What should the Notary’s title be in the certificate, “California Notary Public” or “Notary Public?” — P.H., California
In the state of California, the official title is, “Notary Public”. Throughout the Notary Public Handbook, it refers to “Notary Public” and not “Notary Public in and for the State of California.” There will be documents that have preprinted wording for the Notary Public to fill out. If the document is being filed in California and it includes the title, “Notary Public in and for the State of California” then a notarial certificate with the correct title would need to be completed and attached instead. A Notary Public shall not use the official seal or the title “Notary Public” for any purpose other than the rendering of notarial service. (Government Code section 8207)
Hotline answers are based on the laws in the state where the question originated and may not reflect the laws of other states. If in doubt, always refer to your own state statutes. – The Editors
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Additional Resources:
State Notary Forms and Certificates