Frequently Asked Questions

Required Notarization of Conduct and Competency Review Form (PI 1602-A)

Completion and notarization of the Conduct and Competency Form is required of all applicants as a part of every initial and subsequent renewal application. License applications are not processed by the Department until a complete Conduct and Competency Form with signature notarized has been received.

What is a Notary Public?

A Notary Public is a person appointed by state government to witness, as an impartial agent, the signing of important documents. An "impartial agent" means that the notary is not a party to the transaction and has no financial or beneficial interest in the transaction.

Why are documents notarized?

Notarization is intended to deter fraud. The impartial witness (Notary) ensures that the signer of a document is who they say they are and that the person signed the document willingly.

How does a Notary identify a signer?

Generally, the Notary will ask to see a current identifying document that has a photograph, physical description and a signature. A driver's license, military ID or passport is usually acceptable.

What is involved in having the Conduct and Competency form notarized?

The notary public will witness your signature on the form, complete the notary information at the bottom of the form and then affix their seal to the document. A relatively small fee may be charged for this service.

Where can I find a Notary?

Many school districts have a notary public on staff. Banks generally have a notary available. Other options include a clerk or deputy clerk of a court of record, a court commissioner, a register or deputy register of deeds, a judge, or a county or deputy county clerk. You may also find notary public services listed in the yellow pages of your telephone book.

Does notarization mean that the information on a document is true?

No. Notarization does not prove that information or statements on a document are true or accurate. The signer is responsible for the content of the documents. The notary certifies the identity of the signer.

How does a U.S. Notary differ from a Notario Publico?

In Latin america, a Notario Publico is a high-ranking official like a judge or an attorney. Unlike a Notario Publico, a U.S. Notary is forbidden from preparing legal documents or giving legal advice unless he or she is also an attorney.

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Further questions about the Conduct and Competency Form or the notarization requirement should be directed to Educator Licensing

Last updated on 8/5/2009 9:59:54 AM