Meaning Of Notarial Acts

1. Affidavit / Sworn Statement of True Copy of Original Document(s)

Function: This notarial act is used to certify that a photocopy of a document is a true and correct copy of the original. The Notary Public does not validate the content. You certify that the attached document is a true, exact, complete, unaltered, and accurate photocopy of the original document you possess.

Examples of Vital Records or Public Records Include:

  • Passport
  • Naturalization Certificate
  • Driver’s License
  • Birth Certificate
  • Death Certificate
  • Official School Record and Transcript
  • Diplomas / Educational Certificates
  • U.S. State ID Card or Social Security Cards
  • Business Licenses and Certificates of Incorporation
  • Medical Licenses or Professional Certifications
  • Marriage Documents (e.g., Marriage Certificate)
  • Divorce Documents (e.g., Divorce Certificate / Divorce Decree)

2. Copy Certification

Function: Similar to an affidavit of a true copy, this notarial act certifies that a copy of a document is a true, accurate, and complete reproduction of the original. Not all documents are eligible for copy certification, especially vital records or public records.

Eligible Documents for Texas RON:

  • Educational Records (e.g., private transcripts or diplomas)
  • Private Contracts and Agreements
  • Financial Documents (e.g., private bank statements)
  • Employment Documents (e.g., private employment contracts)
  • Personal Letters and Statements
  • Power of Attorney Documents (private and unrecorded)
  • Corporate and Business Records (non-public)
  • Medical Records or Authorizations (private)
  • Authorizations and Consents (e.g., medical treatment)
  • Property or Lease Documents (private agreements)

Important Notes:

  • Texas RON can only certify private documents.
  • Vital records (e.g., birth, death, marriage certificates) are excluded.

3. Acknowledgment

Function: Used when the signer confirms they executed a document voluntarily. The notary verifies the identity of the signer and ensures they understood the document. The signing can occur before or during the notary session.

4. Signature Witnessing

Function: Similar to acknowledgment, this requires the notary to witness the signing of a document. The notary verifies the identity of the signer and certifies they witnessed the signing.

5. Oath / Affirmation

Function: This act involves the notary administering an oath or affirmation, where the person swears or affirms the truth of a document’s contents. An oath is a declaration to a higher power; an affirmation is a solemn promise without religious connotations.

6. Jurat (Sworn Statement)

Function: Used when a signer must swear or affirm the statements in a document and sign it in the notary’s presence. The notary witnesses the signing and administers an oath or affirmation.


Each notarial act serves a specific legal function, so the correct choice depends on the purpose of the document being notarized and any legal requirements surrounding it.