New York State Notary Practice Exam

To be eligible for appointment as a notary public, an applicant must have the equivalent of which level of school education?

1. High school

2. Common school

3. Post-secondary education

4. Graduate education

The correct answer is: Common school

An applicant for appointment as a notary public in New York must have the equivalent of a common school education. This is understood to mean at least a basic education that provides foundational skills in reading, writing, and basic mathematics, typically associated with the early years of schooling. While some may interpret "common school" as less than a high school education, it is crucial to note that it usually denotes completion of primary or elementary education standards. Therefore, individuals with a more advanced education, such as high school or beyond, would certainly meet this requirement. However, the specific statutory language reflects that common school education is the minimum requirement. This adds a layer of accessibility, allowing a broader range of individuals to qualify for this role, assuming they also meet other criteria laid out in the notary public laws.