Which statement describes the notary's obligation when a document is in a language other than English?

• A. The notary must understand the foreign language in which the document is written.
• B. The notary should rely on a translator and not attempt to understand the language.
• C. The notary may notarize without understanding if the signer signs.
• D. The notary should avoid notarizing foreign language documents.

Answer: (A)

When a document is in a language other than English, the notary’s responsibility centers on verifying that the signer understands what they are signing and that the notarization reflects a knowing, voluntary act. Because the signer’s comprehension is key to a valid acknowledgment or oath, the notary should be capable of understanding the language in which the document is written. This enables the notary to confirm the signer’s intent and to handle the notarization properly, rather than relying solely on someone else to translate. If the notary cannot understand the language, the proper path would involve arranging for a translator to assist, but the foundational obligation described in the material is that the notary must understand the foreign language. The other options either place the entire burden on a translator, permit notarizing without any understanding, or call for avoiding foreign-language documents altogether, which aren’t the standard duties outlined for notaries in this context.