Utah Notary Practice Test

What is the definition of a notary's commission?

1. It is a document of authority granted by the state

2. It is a fee charged for notarial services

3. It is a membership in a professional association

4. It is a guideline for ethical conduct

The correct answer is: It is a document of authority granted by the state

A notary's commission is defined as a document of authority granted by the state. This document formally empowers an individual to perform specific duties as a notary public, which include witnessing signatures on documents, administering oaths, and performing other acts as allowed by law. The commission is essential because it verifies that the individual has met the qualifications required by the state, such as background checks and training, and is authorized to act in the capacity of a notary public. The other options presented do not accurately describe what a notary's commission entails. A fee charged for notarial services relates to compensation rather than authority; membership in a professional association pertains to a collective group rather than a legal authority; and a guideline for ethical conduct, while important in a notary's role, does not constitute the formal enabling document. The essence of a notary's function and legitimacy stems from this state-issued commission.