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Powers & Duties of Notary

A commissioned notary marries during the current term and wishes to use a married name while notarizing. Which statement is correct?

A

The notary must sign only the married name immediately and may no longer use the commissioned name.

B

The notary may continue using the commissioned name, or if electing to use the marriage name must sign under the commissioned name and add the married name in parentheses.

C

The notary may alternate freely between the two names on different documents during the same term.

D

The notary must stop acting until a new commission issues in the married name.

Official source: Notary Public License Law (March 2026)

Reference: Powers & Duties of Notary

Source checked September 7, 2026

✓

Correct Answer

B. The notary may continue using the commissioned name, or if electing to use the marriage name must sign under the commissioned name and add the married name in parentheses.

Detailed Explanation

The commissioned name remains the core official signature during the term. In “Signature of Notary Public,” the booklet says a notary who marries may continue to use the commissioned name and, if electing to use the marriage name during the term, must continue signing under the commissioned name and add the married name in parentheses. Not to be confused with renewal practice, the new name may be selected formally when the commission is renewed.

Powers & Duties of Notary Question #315
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