A North Dakota notary acknowledgment form is used by notaries to authenticate signatures on sensitive documents, ensuring that the signee is who they claim to be and that they are signing freely and without coercion. The form, which includes the date, the signee’s name, and the notary’s stamp and signature, is essential for verifying that the signee is of sound mind and that the document is genuine.
Upon the notary’s approval and confirmation of the signer’s identification, the form is completed and stamped, rendering the document officially notarized.
Legal Considerations
Statute: Chapter 44-06.1 – Revised Uniform Law on Notarial Acts.
Form of Acknowledgment: The certificate of a notarial act must be executed simultaneously with the act itself, signed and dated by the notarial officer in the same manner as their signature on file with the secretary of state. (§ 44-06.1-19 and § 44-06.1-14).
Notary Term of Commission: Four years (§ 44-06.1-20(5)).
Notary Handbook: The North Dakota Notaries Public Secretary of State webpage compiles the required resources on notary procedures and how to become a notary.
Is Online Notarization Legal in North Dakota?
Yes, with the enactment of ND House Bill 1110, Remote Online Notarization (RON) has been authorized in North Dakota starting from August 1, 2009. NDCC § 44-06.1-13.1 governs electronic notarization.
Visit North Dakota RON for more information on online notarizations.
How to Notarize
Step 1 – Finding a Notary Public
In North Dakota, notaries are often available at UPS Stores, banks like Wells Fargo and Gate City Bank, financial institutions, and postal service centers. Also, utilize an online directory for statewide notary locations.
Step 2 – Preparing the Document
Ensure all areas requiring signatures are unsigned before the notarization.
Step 3 – Identification
Present a valid ID to the notary, except if the notary already knows the signer.
Step 4 – Signing the Document
Sign the document while in the notary’s presence, affirming the signature is voluntary.
Step 5 – Oath or Affirmations
Some notarizations, like jurats, require the signer to swear or affirm the document’s truthfulness.
Step 6 – Finalizing Notarization
The notary completes the process with their signature and seal. The signer’s physical presence is mandatory for identity confirmation.
How to Verify a Notary
- Visit the North Dakota Notary Public search portal.
- Search for notaries by name, commission number, or location.
- Select a notary to view their commission details, expiration, and commission area.
