Every time a California notary performs a notarial act, they need a properly worded certificate attached to the document. The two most common certificates are the acknowledgment and the jurat. Using the wrong wording or an outdated form can invalidate the notarization.
We created a free two-page PDF with both forms, formatted for standard letter-size paper and ready to print. The wording follows the current California Civil Code requirements (Section 1189 for acknowledgments and Section 1202 for jurats).
When to use an acknowledgment
An acknowledgment is used when the signer appears before you and acknowledges that they signed the document voluntarily. The signer does not need to sign in front of you. Common documents that use acknowledgments include deeds, powers of attorney, and trust documents.
When to use a jurat
A jurat is used when the signer must swear or affirm that the contents of the document are true. The signer must sign the document in front of you, and you must administer an oath or affirmation. Common documents that use jurats include affidavits and declarations.
Download both forms (2-page PDF)
New to notarizing? Our 6-hour education course covers when to use each certificate type, how to administer oaths, and how to avoid the most common mistakes new notaries make.
Quick answers
Looking for a short answer? Our FAQ covers the most common questions about California notary education.
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