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Notarial Acts/Documentation

When an individual signs a document by mark (e.g., 'X'), what is the strict role of the two required witnesses regarding the notary's sequential journal?

A

They must both sign the journal next to the signer's mark.

B

They must both provide their right thumbprints in the journal.

C

Only the witness who writes the signer's name next to the mark must sign the journal.

D

They are not required to sign the journal unless they are ALSO acting as credible witnesses to establish the signer's identity.

Official source: 2026 California Notary Public Handbook (2026)

Reference: Notarial Acts/Documentation

Source checked September 7, 2026

✓

Correct Answer

D. They are not required to sign the journal unless they are ALSO acting as credible witnesses to establish the signer's identity.

Detailed Explanation

Signature by Mark journal rules. A notary public is not required to identify the two persons who witnessed the signing by mark or to have the two witnesses sign the notary public's journal. The exception is ONLY if the witnesses were acting in the capacity of credible witnesses in establishing identity.

Notarial Acts/Documentation Question #66
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