When is the impression of the notary seal not required?

The impression of the notary seal is not required when completing a notarization on a California subdivision map. This is because subdivision maps in California are handled under specific regulatory guidelines that do not mandate the use of a notary seal when they are being submitted for approval or recorded. Instead, the signature of the notary may suffice without the seal, as long as it meets the specific requirements set by the California Land and Resources Agency.

In contrast, for other documents such as marriage licenses, living wills, and powers of attorney, California law requires notaries to affix their seal to authenticate the notarization, which serves as a verification of their official act and adds a layer of trust and security to those important legal documents.