If the document contains a foreign language, what should you do?

• A. Ignore and proceed
• B. Convert the document yourself
• C. Have signer translate themselves
• D. Speak a common language with signer and communicate directly

Answer: (D)

When a document is in a foreign language, the notary must ensure the signer truly understands what they are signing and what the notarization entails. The best approach is to communicate directly in a language that both parties share. This direct interaction helps confirm comprehension and prevents misinterpretation of the document or the notarization steps. If you and the signer don’t share a common language, arrange for a qualified translator so the signer’s understanding is verified. The notary should not translate the document themselves unless they are fluent, and they should not proceed by ignoring the language barrier or by relying on the signer to translate without verification. This direct, shared-language communication safeguards the integrity of the notarization.