Whose signature goes on the signature line?

• A. the notary
• B. the signer
• C. the witness
• D. the clerk

Answer: (A)

The signature line on a notarial certificate is reserved for the notary. The notary signs there to certify that they witnessed the signing or administered the oath and that the document’s notarial act is valid. The signer signs the document itself, but not the notary’s certification line. A witness signs only when the document requires a witness, and a clerk does not sign the notarial line unless they are performing the notary’s role or a specific clerical function. In Maryland practice, the notary’s signature is accompanied by the official seal and commission details to verify the act and the notary’s authority.