Indiana Notary Public Practice Exam

Who commissions a notary public?

1. A federal government agency

2. The state

3. The local notary association

4. A private corporation

The correct answer is: The state

The correct answer is that a notary public is commissioned by the state. In Indiana, as in other states, the authority to appoint and commission notaries public is granted by state government. This process typically involves an application, fulfilling certain eligibility requirements, and taking an oath of office to perform notarial acts. This state-level commissioning underscores the importance of regulation and standardization in the notarial process, ensuring that notaries operate under the laws and guidelines established by the state. It is crucial for maintaining public trust in the validity and integrity of notarial acts, as the state's oversight helps to ensure that notaries are properly trained and adhere to legal standards. While federal agencies, local notary associations, and private corporations may play roles in various aspects of the notarial profession, such as providing resources or training, they do not have the authority to commission notaries. The commission is a formal designation that comes directly from the state, which is responsible for regulating notaries and their functions.