Key (2025)
Number of Questions: 50
QUESTION 1:
What is the primary function of a Notary Public in the state of Illinois?
A. To provide legal advice to signers
B. To authenticate and witness the signing of important documents
C. To draft legal contracts
D. To enforce state laws
CORRECT ANSWER: B
RATIONALE: The principal duty of an Illinois Notary Public is to serve as an impartial witness,
verifying the identity of signers and deterring fraud in the execution of documents.
QUESTION 2:
True or False: An Illinois Notary Public may notarize their own signature.
CORRECT ANSWER: False
RATIONALE: A notary must remain impartial and cannot notarize documents in which they have
a direct interest, including their own signature.
QUESTION 3:
Which government office commissions Notaries Public in Illinois?
A. The Secretary of State
B. The County Clerk’s Office
C. The Illinois Attorney General
D. The State Comptroller
CORRECT ANSWER: A
RATIONALE: The Illinois Secretary of State is the commissioning authority responsible for
administering the notary program.
, QUESTION 4:
How long is the commission term for an Illinois Notary Public?
A. 2 years
B. 4 years
C. 5 years
D. 10 years
CORRECT ANSWER: C
RATIONALE: Illinois Notary commissions are valid for five years from the date of issuance.
QUESTION 5:
What is the minimum age requirement to become a Notary Public in Illinois?
A. 18 years old
B. 19 years old
C. 21 years old
D. 25 years old
CORRECT ANSWER: A
RATIONALE: Applicants must be at least 18 years of age, a resident of Illinois for at least 30 days,
and meet other qualification requirements.
QUESTION 6:
Which of the following is not a required qualification to become an Illinois Notary Public?
A. U.S. citizenship
B. Being able to read and write English
C. Residency in Illinois or employment in Illinois
D. Passing a background check
CORRECT ANSWER: A
RATIONALE: U.S. citizenship is not required; however, the applicant must be a legal resident or
employed in Illinois.
QUESTION 7:
Which is a duty restricted for Notaries in Illinois?
A. Taking acknowledgments
B. Administering oaths