Janet, I kind of wish it was that way everywhere because it would weed out the clueless people who should never have a notary commission. At least in CA each notarization has some real monetary value, whereas in most states the notary may only charge something along the lines of $2 - $7 per notarial act (not per signature.) Several months ago I had my signature notarized on a document along with a second signer and we went to the local pack and ship store to have it done. The notary is on her third commission and she made so many errors. She also charged us more than the state-allowed fee and she refused to discuss it when I pointed it out to her. As a result, I filed a formal complaint against her with the state; she was admonished and required to complete a notary training class - her notary commission has now been reinstated. Her third commission and she still didn't know what she was doing. I've also had things notarized at my bank and they made errors too. I personally would welcome a more expensive and rigorous notary commission process with a testing requirement in my state. Here in TX, if you have $21 and a pulse and purchase a bond, you can become a notary.
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