New York Notary Public Exam

A New York client asks the notary to certify that a photocopy of a diploma is a true copy. What is correct?

1. ACertify it for $2
2. BCertify it only with two witnesses
3. CDecline—New York notaries cannot certify copiesCorrect
4. DAdminister an oath instead and then certify

Why: New York notaries have no power to certify copies of documents; there is simply no notarial copy certification in New York. This is a classic exam trap. The notary should decline and, if appropriate, suggest the signer obtain a certified copy from the issuing authority.

How long is a New York notary commission valid?

1. AFour yearsCorrect
2. BTwo years
3. COne year
4. DTen years

Why: A New York notary commission lasts four years. Note the separate two-year validity of the exam pass letter—an applicant must file within two years of passing. Attorneys admitted in New York are exempt from the exam.