What three items must every notary submit to the clerk after being commissioned?

• A. Photocopy of the Notary's commission; Impression of the Notary's seal; Specimen of the Notary's official signature
• B. Photocopy of the Notary's commission; Specimen of the Notary's official signature
• C. Impression of the Notary's seal; Specimen of the Notary's official signature
• D. Photocopy of the Notary's commission; Impression of the Notary's seal

Answer: (A)

The main idea being tested is what records a notary must have on file with the county clerk after being commissioned. In Texas, the clerk needs three specific items to verify the notary’s authority and the authenticity of notarial acts: a photocopy of the notary’s commission to show the official appointment and its dates; an impression of the notary’s official seal to authenticate documents; and a specimen of the notary’s official signature so the clerk can compare and confirm signatures on records. Together, these on-file items provide a verifiable trail of authority, enable proper authentication of notarial acts, and help prevent forgery. If any of these are missing, it would leave gaps in verifying who is authorized to perform notarial duties and how to verify notarial affixed seals and signatures.