What does OCGA 45-17-82 require a notary public to do?

The correct answer is that OCGA 45-17-82 requires a notary public to sign using hand ink only and exactly as indicated on the commission. This statute specifies the standards for a notary's signature, emphasizing the importance of using permanent ink in the signing process to ensure that the notarial act is reliable and officially recognized. By requiring the notary to sign exactly as indicated on their commission, OCGA 45-17-82 ensures consistency and helps to prevent forgery or misrepresentation of the notary's identity. This adherence to established signatures adds a layer of security to the notarization process, instilling trust in public records and legal documents.

This requirement stems from the need for a notarial act to be clear, identifiable, and assertive in its authenticity, which is paramount in legal circumstances where documents may be scrutinized. Using hand ink also mitigates the risk of alteration or erasure that might occur more easily with other methods, like pencil or electronic signatures, which can be less secure.