Key Takeaways
- Notarizing your own signature is strictly prohibited
- Notarizing for immediate family members is generally prohibited due to beneficial interest
- Using the term "notario" or "notario publico" is prohibited
- Providing legal advice constitutes unauthorized practice of law
- Having a financial interest in the transaction disqualifies the notary
Prohibited Acts Under RULONA
Understanding prohibited acts is crucial for exam success (80% passing score) and protecting your commission. RULONA and its regulations establish clear prohibitions.
Self-Notarization
NEVER notarize any document where you are the signer.
| Situation | Allowed? |
|---|---|
| You sign and notarize | NEVER |
| Document names you as party | NO |
| Document benefits you directly | NO |
No exceptions exist. Even if you are the only notary available, you cannot notarize your own signature.
Family Member Notarization
| Relationship | Generally Prohibited | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Spouse | YES | Beneficial interest |
| Parent/Child | YES | Beneficial interest |
| Sibling | YES | Beneficial interest |
| Grandparent/Grandchild | YES | Beneficial interest |
| Distant relatives | Maybe | Depends on interest |
Key Issue: The prohibition is based on beneficial interest, not the relationship itself. If a family member would benefit from the transaction, you cannot notarize.
Financial or Beneficial Interest
You cannot notarize if you will benefit from the transaction:
| Prohibited Situation | Why |
|---|---|
| You are a party to the document | Direct interest |
| You receive proceeds | Financial benefit |
| Your business gains | Indirect benefit |
| Named beneficiary | Personal gain |
| Named agent/representative | Authority interest |
"Notario" Prohibition
CRITICAL: Pennsylvania law specifically prohibits using:
| Prohibited Terms | Why Prohibited |
|---|---|
| "Notario" | Misleading to immigrants |
| "Notario Publico" | False representation of authority |
| Any Spanish equivalent | Consumer protection |
In many Latin American countries, a "notario" is an attorney with significant legal powers. Using these terms misleads immigrants into believing the notary can provide legal services.
Unauthorized Practice of Law
A notary commission does NOT authorize legal practice.
| Prohibited | What It Is |
|---|---|
| Giving legal advice | Explaining legal consequences |
| Preparing legal documents | Drafting contracts, wills |
| Recommending language | Suggesting document wording |
| Acting as immigration consultant | Advising on status |
| Representing in legal matters | Court or agency representation |
Other Prohibited Acts
| Prohibition | Reason |
|---|---|
| Notarizing incomplete documents | Fraud risk |
| Pre-dating/post-dating certificates | Falsification |
| Notarizing without personal appearance | Fundamental violation |
| Using expired commission | No authority |
| False statements in certificate | Fraud |
| Acting outside Pennsylvania | Beyond jurisdiction |
| Advertising falsely | Consumer deception |
Conflict of Interest Standards
Under the new RULONA regulations (effective March 28, 2026):
| Situation | Required Action |
|---|---|
| Direct financial interest | Must refuse |
| Immediate family transaction | Must refuse |
| Employer pressure to notarize improperly | Must refuse |
| Personal relationship creating bias | Should refuse |
On the Exam
- Self-notarization: NEVER allowed
- Family members: Generally prohibited (interest)
- "Notario": Prohibited term
- Legal advice: Unauthorized practice of law
- Incomplete documents: Cannot notarize
Can a Pennsylvania notary notarize their own signature?
Why is using the term "notario publico" prohibited in Pennsylvania?
A notary's spouse asks them to notarize a real estate deed. What should the notary do?