Which of the following is NOT required in a notarial certificate?

In a notarial certificate, the essential components include the notary's signature, the testimonial clause, and the seal. The narrative of events is not a required element within the certificate.

The notary's signature is crucial as it validates the notarial act, confirming that the notary has witnessed the signing or the acknowledgment. The testimonial clause is a statement included in the certificate that typically expresses the notary's observance of the signature and serves to make the proof of the notarial act official. The seal is a vital part of the process, as it provides additional verification of the notary's authority and the authenticity of the document.

In contrast, while the narrative of events can provide useful context regarding the circumstances of the notarization, it is not mandated as part of the notarial certificate. Therefore, it is not required and can be considered optional information that is usually accounted for in a notary's journal or separate record. This distinction is important for understanding the requirements of a notarial certification in California.