Illinois Notary Primer Practice Exam

Which of the following is NOT a notarial act authorized in Illinois?

1. Certifying copies of birth certificates

2. Taking acknowledgments of signatures

3. Taking oaths and affirmations

4. Witnessing a document signing

The correct answer is: Certifying copies of birth certificates

The correct answer is that certifying copies of birth certificates is not an authorized notarial act in Illinois. In Illinois, notaries are primarily empowered to perform acts such as taking acknowledgments of signatures, taking oaths and affirmations, and witnessing document signings. These functions are integral to the duties of a notary public, as they help verify the identity of individuals and ensure that documents are executed properly. However, certifying copies of vital records, including birth certificates, falls outside the realm of notarial duties. In the state, only specific authorities, such as the local registrar or the Illinois Department of Public Health, are authorized to issue certified copies of such records. This distinction maintains the integrity of vital records and ensures that they are managed by the appropriate entities, reinforcing the role of notaries as impartial witnesses rather than custodians of personal records.