Part 4, Section 9
Language Barriers

California notaries may notarize the signatures of individuals who sign a document written in a foreign language, even if you cannot understand the language used in the document.  However, you must be able to understand the language used in the notarial certificate and must be able to communicate in a common language with the signer. 

The signer must also be able to comprehend the oath or affirmation, if applicable.  A third party translator cannot be used.  If you are unable to communicate with the signer due to language barriers, you cannot notarize their document and you should refer them to a notary who can speak a common language with them.

If you cannot understand the actual title of the document for your journal entry, simply write “DOCUMENT IN A FOREIGN LANGUAGE”.
 

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