Illinois Notary Primer Practice Exam

Can a Notary notarize their own signature?

1. Yes, if it is done during non-business hours

2. No, a Notary cannot notarize their own signature

3. Only if they declare a conflict of interest

4. Yes, as long as it is a simple document

The correct answer is: No, a Notary cannot notarize their own signature

No, a Notary cannot notarize their own signature because it goes against the principle of impartiality and neutrality that Notaries are required to uphold in their duties. The notarization process is designed to prevent fraud and verify the identities of the signers, so a Notary cannot act in their own interest by notarizing their own signature. This is why option B is correct. Options A, C, and D are incorrect because they try to provide exceptions or conditions where a Notary could notarize their own signature, which is not allowed according to notarial best practices and standards.