New York State Notary Exam 2025 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

A notary should question a signer's understanding of a document when the signer appears confused or hesitant. This is crucial to ensure that the signer fully comprehends what they are signing, as the notary's role is not just to witness the act of signing but also to confirm that the signer is doing so willingly and with a clear understanding of the document's contents and implications.

If a signer is demonstrating confusion or hesitation, it raises red flags about their awareness or consent, which could lead to potential legal issues later on. The notary must act in the interest of protecting all parties involved, and questioning the signer's understanding in such situations is a vital step in fulfilling that responsibility.

Other scenarios, like a signer wearing sunglasses or being a minor, do not inherently suggest a lack of understanding and would not necessarily prompt the same level of scrutiny regarding their comprehension of the document. Similarly, the length of a document alone does not determine whether the signer is confused or hesitant, as some individuals may fully understand lengthy documents while others may struggle with even brief ones. Thus, the notary's assessment hinges on the present mental clarity and confidence of the signer, making observation of their demeanor and behavior paramount.