Who is required to sign the notarial certificate?

The notarial certificate must be signed by the notary. This signature is essential because it authenticates the notarial act and affirms that the notary has completed the necessary steps to verify the identity of the signer and witness the signing of the document. The notary's signature, along with their seal, serves as evidence that the document has been notarized in accordance with state laws and procedures.

The presence of the notary’s signature in the certificate indicates to third parties that the signing has been properly witnessed and the appropriate notarial duties have been fulfilled. This is crucial for establishing the document's legitimacy and can prevent disputes regarding the authenticity of the signatures and the intentions behind the notarial act.