New York Notary Law Reader — 2026–2027

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What New York law says

Every qualified notary may, throughout the State, administer oaths and affirmations, take affidavits and depositions, receive and certify acknowledgments or proof of deeds, mortgages, powers of attorney and other written instruments, and demand acceptance or payment of bills of exchange and notes and protest them.

Plain English

Your jurisdiction is the whole state, not just your county. Your core jobs: oaths/affirmations, affidavits, depositions, acknowledgments/proofs, and protests.

Real-world New York example

A Westchester-commissioned notary takes an acknowledgment for a client in Brooklyn. That's valid — jurisdiction is statewide.

Exam takeaway

Statewide jurisdiction. Five core powers. You may refuse if the signer appears not competent or not acting voluntarily.

Source: Executive Law §130, §135; 19 NYCRR §182.3(b) — Notary Public License Law (Sept. 2026)

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New York Notary Law

01Powers and DutiesWhat a NY notary is authorized to do.

What New York law says

Plain English

Real-world New York example

Exam takeaway

02AcknowledgmentsCertifying identity and execution of a document.

03JuratsThe certificate that a statement was sworn.

04OathsA solemn pledge of truthfulness.

05AffirmationsThe non-religious equivalent of an oath.

06Oath vs. AffirmationSame binding effect, different wording.

07AffidavitsA signed, sworn written statement.

08Identity / Satisfactory EvidenceHow you confirm who's in front of you.

09Prohibited ActsUnauthorized practice of law and more.

10DisqualificationsWhen you can't act because of interest.

11Notarial Fees$2 traditional; $25 electronic.

12Journal / RecordkeepingWhat to record and how long to keep it.

13Electronic / Remote NotarizationAudio-video notarization under §135-c.

14MisconductWhat gets a notary removed.

15PenaltiesMisdemeanors and felonies to know.

16Commission and AppointmentWho appoints, for how long, and residency.

17VenueWhere the notarial act took place.

18DepositionsOut-of-court testimony under oath.

19ProtestCertifying a refused note or bill.

20Seal RequirementsNot required — but §137 information is.