RI Notary Qualifications and Commission 2

Question 1

Maria lives in Connecticut but works full-time at a law office in Providence. Can she qualify for a Rhode Island notary commission?

Accepted Answer

Yes, because she has a place of employment or practice in Rhode Island

Answer

No, only Rhode Island residents may be commissioned

Answer

Yes, but only if she also owns property in Rhode Island

Answer

No, unless Connecticut has a reciprocity agreement with Rhode Island

Question 2

Under Rhode Island law, which official ultimately appoints notaries public?

Accepted Answer

The Governor

Answer

The Chief Justice of the Supreme Court

Answer

The Attorney General

Answer

Each city or town clerk

Question 3

What is the standard term of a Rhode Island notary public commission?

Accepted Answer

Four years

Answer

Two years

Answer

Five years

Answer

Ten years

Question 4

James was convicted of a felony involving fraud several years ago. How does this affect his Rhode Island notary application?

Accepted Answer

The commissioning authority may deny his application based on the conviction

Answer

It has no effect because notary applications do not ask about criminal history

Answer

He is automatically approved if the conviction is more than one year old

Answer

He may only be commissioned as an electronic notary

Question 5

Which of the following is a basic qualification for a Rhode Island notary applicant?

Accepted Answer

Being at least 18 years of age

Answer

Holding a college degree

Answer

Being a registered voter in Rhode Island

Answer

Having at least two years of office work experience

Question 6

An applicant for a Rhode Island notary commission must be able to do which of the following?

Accepted Answer

Read and write the English language

Answer

Speak at least two languages fluently

Answer

Type at least 40 words per minute

Answer

Pass a written bar examination

Question 7

Which statement about surety bonds for Rhode Island notaries is correct?

Accepted Answer

Rhode Island does not require notaries to obtain a surety bond

Answer

A $10,000 surety bond is required before commissioning

Answer

A $25,000 surety bond is required only for non-residents

Answer

A bond is required but may be waived for attorneys