In my training, they did not mention taking fingerprints, but in the Notary journal I received, there is a space to take fingerprints. Is this a requirement when I notarize something? If so, will my stamp come with a fingerprint pad? If not, where can I get one? — M. S., Nevada
A signer’s fingerprint in your journal is not required by the laws of Nevada. The vendor of the particular journal you purchased may have the fingerprint space there because it will be used by California Notaries where obtaining a journal fingerprint is a legal requirement. Since it is not a requirement in Nevada, it is best not to obtain a thumbprint in your journal.
California is the only state that requires Notaries to obtain a signer thumbprint for their journal entries. Requesting a thumbprint from a signer for a journal entry is optional in other states, but if the signer refuses, the Notary must respect the signer's right to privacy. Notaries in states that do not require journal thumbprints should not refuse a notarization solely on the basis of the signer declining to provide a thumbprint. For more information and journal entry guidelines for other states, please see our article on Notary journal thumbprints and privacy issues.
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
Confronted with a tricky notarization? Unsure how to proceed? NNA members have unlimited access to our expertly trained NNA Hotline consultants to help you with all of your notarial questions. Call 1-888-876-0827, Monday through Friday, 6 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. PST; Saturday, 5 a.m. to 5 p.m. PST.