Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is a Notary Public?
A: A person appointed by the Secretary of State to perform notarial acts.
Q: What is a Notarial Act?
A: Notarial Acts are acts that a Notary Public is authorized to perform.
Q: I need advice. Can a Notary Public help me with formulating a document?
A: No.
Q: I do not feel comfortable signing the Notary Public's journal. Can a Notary Public refuse to notarize for me?
A: Yes. According to Nevada's state law, a Notary Public's journal is required to be signed.
Q: What are examples of the most common notarial acts?
A: Jurats, & Acknowledgements
Q: Are same day appointments available?
A: Yes! Please give prior notice to secure a time that is convenient for you; anywhere between 30 minutes-an hour before is recommended.
Q: Is a Notario Publico the same as a Notary Public?
A: No. In the United States, a Notary Public can NOT provide legal guidance or legal advice regarding immigration.
In Latin America, a Notario Publico carries similar duties as an attorney.
Q: I am 66 years old and do not have a picture ID. How can I get my documents notarized?
A: Regarding an individual who is 65 years of age or older, the law allows alternate methods of identification; such as with a card issued by a senior citizen center or governmental agency.
Q: Should I bring my social security card for identification?
A: Confidential information, such as a social security card, is not required.
The law simply requires that a signer brings an identification card which must include both a photo and signature of the document signer. Please ensure your photo ID is current and not expired.
Q: How does a Notary Public verify a signer's identity?
A: By using valid credentials, such as a driver's license, passport, or consoler card. Please bring to your appointment.
Q: My driver's license and passport are lost. Can I still get my documents notarized?
A: No. Without sufficient evidence to identify an individual, a Notary is unable to complete the requested notarial acts. A Notary Public has sufficient evidence of an individual if a person is identified on the basis of an identifying document, which contains a signature and photograph, (commonly a driver's license), or is identified on the basis of a consular identification card.
Q: What can I do if my family member is unable to write their signature on an instrument?
A: Not a problem! If the party cannot write, a mark is equally valid; however the name of the individual making the mark must be written near it and witnessed by two people who subscribe their own names as witnesses thereto. The individual must make their own mark.
Q: What notarial acts can a Notary Public perform in Nevada?
A: Taking acknowledgements, administering an oath or affirmation, executing a Jurat, noting a protest (of a negotiable instrument), and certifying a copy.
Q: Can a Notary Public certify a copy of a birth certificate or decree of divorce?
A: No. NRS 440.175(2) states that no person may prepare or issue any document which purports to be an original, certified copy or official copy of a certificate of birth, certificate of marriage, or a decree of divorce, or annulment of marriage.
Please seek assistance from a county clerk or the judge of a court of record.
Sunshine Notary LV strives to ensure the integrity of important transactions and documents. Fraud prevention is our top priority.
Certified Notary Signing Agent
BACKGROUND SCREENING MEETS INDUSTRY STANDARDS (Date passed: January 28, 2025)