Sourced from the official booklet. We base everything on the Department of State's Notary Public License Law (September 2026 edition). Rules and fees can change, so confirm with the NY Department of State before you act.
You must refuse when
- The signer doesn't personally appear (or properly appear by approved audio-video).
- You lack satisfactory evidence of identity.
- You are a party or directly and financially interested.
- The record doesn't show the signer's authority to act as a representative.
- Doing it would mean giving legal advice or drafting legal papers.
You may refuse when
- You aren't satisfied that the person is competent.
- You aren't satisfied that the signature is knowing and voluntary.
You must not refuse when
All the requirements are met. An officer before whom an oath may be taken is bound to administer it on request, and refusing is a misdemeanor.