CA Notary Notary Misconduct and Penalties

Question 1

What California government agency has the authority to revoke a notary public's commission?

Accepted Answer

The California Secretary of State

Answer

The county clerk

Answer

The California Attorney General

Answer

The Department of Consumer Affairs

Question 2

Which of the following acts constitutes grounds for denial or revocation of a California notary commission?

Accepted Answer

Conviction of a crime involving dishonesty or moral turpitude

Answer

Charging the maximum allowable fee

Answer

Performing more than 50 notarizations per day

Answer

Notarizing documents for non-residents of California

Question 3

A California notary notarizes their own signature on a document. Is this permissible?

Accepted Answer

No, a notary may never notarize their own signature

Answer

Yes, as long as the notary discloses it

Answer

Only for personal documents not involving third parties

Answer

Only for documents valued under $1,000

Question 4

What is the penalty for a California notary who willfully fails to maintain a journal?

Accepted Answer

A civil penalty of up to $750 and possible commission revocation

Answer

A warning letter only

Answer

Automatic commission suspension for 30 days

Answer

A mandatory training course

Question 5

May a California notary notarize a document when they have a direct financial interest in the transaction?

Accepted Answer

No, a notary must not notarize a document in which they have a direct financial interest

Answer

Yes, with written disclosure to all parties

Answer

Only for transactions under $10,000

Answer

Only with Secretary of State approval

Question 6

What must a California notary do if they are directed by an employer to perform an improper notarial act?

Accepted Answer

Refuse to perform the improper act, as the notary is personally responsible for all notarizations

Answer

Comply with the employer's instructions to keep their job

Answer

Report the employer to the county clerk first

Answer

Perform the act but document the employer's instruction in the journal