New York State Notary Practice Exam 2025 - Free Notary Practice Questions and Study Guide

The correct answer is indeed that applications for notaries public in New York are prescribed by the Secretary of State. This is because the Secretary of State’s office is responsible for overseeing the commissioning of notaries public in New York State, which includes handling the application process, providing the necessary forms, and setting the standards and regulations that applicants must meet.

The Secretary of State plays a critical role in ensuring that notaries public are properly appointed and that they adhere to the legal standards required for the duties they will perform. This includes reviewing applications for completeness and accuracy, as well as ensuring that candidates meet eligibility requirements.

This responsibility does not lie with the Attorney General, local government entities, or the court system, as each of these organizations has different roles and jurisdictions, with the Secretary of State specifically tasked with notary public commissions.