Fingerprints are sometimes used as a means of identification by trained professionals in government agencies or law enforcement. They can be used for various purposes, but the most common cases include criminal investigations and background checks. So, are fingerprints required for notarial acts, and do notaries take fingerprints?
Why Are Fingerprints Used for Identification?
With over eight billion people on Earth, no two persons have the exact same fingerprints. Even twins don’t have matching fingerprints, which makes them a perfect identification tool. In fact, they are still the most secure and reliable form of identification, even with different types of modern IDs.
That’s why law enforcement agencies like the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) have huge databases with tens of millions of fingertips stored. It helps them identify criminals and suspects quickly, making their job a lot easier.
Fingerprints are sometimes used for identification because of their uniqueness and reliability.
Is Fingerprinting Important for Notarial Acts?
A notary is a certified public official who performs certain acts, such as witnessing the signing of important documents and administering oaths. In most cases, the primary role of a notary is to verify the identity and authenticate a signer’s signature.
A notary public requires some form of photo ID to verify identity, and they also need to witness the signing. If a notary public performs a notarization for an illiterate client, they can take fingerprints as a form of identification. However, a literate witness must be present to brief the signer about the contents of the document.
In some states like California, fingerprints are required for any document concerning real property. Therefore, the notary public should witness the affixing of the fingerprint in addition to their standard notarial duties. This prevents forgery and adds another layer of security to real property transactions.
However, it is important to mention that, in most cases, notaries do not have the authority to take, collect, or verify fingerprints.
Fingerprinting is not a standard practice for notarial acts. However, it can be a part of a notarization process in some cases.
Fingerprints and Privacy Issues
Fingerprinting is relatively new in the notary industry, but not everyone is a fan of it. That’s because fingerprints are a unique and personal characteristic that can be used to identify an individual, which raises some privacy concerns.
The collection and use of fingerprints are regulated by laws that protect personal privacy and restrict how fingerprints can be collected, stored, and shared. There are various ways in which fingerprints can be taken, including using specialized equipment like fingerprint scanners or ink and paper. Therefore, it is vital to ensure that the collection of fingerprints is done in a manner that respects an individual’s privacy and complies with relevant laws or regulations.
Taking fingerprints for notarial acts is still new, but it raises privacy concerns.
Choosing a Reliable Notary Is Vital
If you need to notarize a document in a state requiring fingerprinting, you should select a reliable notary who can perform this action. Integrity Signers is here for you, as our network of mobile notaries consists of only the most trustworthy people in the business. We respect your privacy and are happy to discuss your concerns.
Our mobile notary services are quick, reliable, and convenient. That way, you can focus on your business and let us take over the notarizing part.
Schedule a signer with Integrity Signers and discover why using mobile notary services is so convenient.
