Walker's Notary
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Free cheat sheet

The one page to memorize before exam day.

You can't bring notes into the room, so this is the page to burn into memory: the fees, the penalty ladder, the four acts, and the 2023 rules older guides still get wrong. Every number traces to its official source. Print it, stick it on the fridge, and read it until it's boring.

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The four acts

Oath / affirmation
You make the signer swear (or affirm) their words are true. Lying is perjury either way.
Acknowledgment
The signer confirms the signature on a finished document is theirs. No oath.
Jurat
The "sworn to before me this ___ day" clause on an affidavit. Oath plus signature.
Proof of execution
A subscribing witness swears they saw the principal sign. Rare, still tested.

The fees you may charge

Executive Law §136. Travel and extras are not set by §136.

  • Oath or affirmation $2.00
  • Acknowledgment or proof (per person) $2.00
  • Swearing a witness to a proof $2.00
  • Protest $0.75
  • Each notice of protest $0.10 (max 5)
  • Electronic notarial act $25.00

The penalty ladder

  • Class D felony up to 7 years

    e.g. forgery in the 2nd degree

  • Class E felony up to 4 years

    e.g. issuing a false certificate

  • Class A misdemeanor up to 1 year

    e.g. acting before filing your oath

The 2023 rules

  • The journal (record-keeping) requirement took effect January 25, 2023, and applies to every NY notary.
  • Electronic notarization became permanent that same month, with a separate e-notary registration.

These are the questions older study guides miss.

Exam day

  • Walk-in: no appointment, seats first-come, late arrivals turned away.
  • Arrive at least 15 minutes early with your fee and photo ID.
  • $15, by check, money order, MasterCard or Visa. Cash is refused.
  • Bring two #2 pencils. They are not provided.

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Walker's Notary is an independent study course. We are not affiliated with the New York Department of State. Every figure here traces to the current License Law publication and DOS exam materials. Always confirm exam-day logistics against the current DOS schedule before you go.