Can I Trust AI to Answer My Notary Questions Correctly?

Let’s be honest—AI tools like ChatGPT are everywhere right now. They can answer questions in seconds, and many notaries are already using them to ask questions like “Can I notarize this type of document?” or “What ID is acceptable?”

But here’s the catch: AI isn’t always right.

AI pulls from general information—articles, blogs, even social media posts—that may be outdated and may not provide answers that apply to your specific state laws. That means the response might sound confident but still be completely wrong.

Imagine this: You ask if you can certify a copy of a document in your state. An AI might say yes—but your state actually prohibits notaries from certifying copies. Relying on that advice could lead to an improper notarization and potential disciplinary action from your state’s notary authority.

Or maybe you ask if you can notarize a document for your spouse’s business. An AI might give you the green light, but your state may actually prohibit notarizing documents to which you or your spouse are a party, or in which either of you has a direct beneficial interest. Following advice like that could put both your commission and the validity of the document at risk.

And here’s the tough truth—AI won’t be held accountable for mistakes. You will.

How to Use AI the Right Way

AI can still be valuable for notaries—if used wisely. It is not a substitute for your state’s notary laws. You might use AI to gather general information. However, always verify AI answers with your state’s statutes or handbook and, when needed, consult an attorney before relying on it.

Final Thoughts

AI is helpful—but your notary laws are the real authority. Your commission represents the trust your state has placed in you to follow its laws, protect the public, and perform your duties with integrity. AI may spark ideas, but it’s your knowledge of the law that ensures every notarization is done correctly.