What to Say When Taking an Oath or Affirmation

If your document requires a jurat, part of the notarization involves taking an oath or affirmation — and a lot of first-time signers aren't sure what to expect or what they're supposed to say.

What the notary will ask

The notary administers the oath, not the other way around. Typically, the notary will raise their right hand (and ask you to do the same) and ask something along the lines of:

"Do you swear or affirm that the statements in this document are true, to the best of your knowledge?"

What you say

Your answer is simple: "I do" or "I affirm." That's it — you're not required to recite anything longer or more formal.

Oath vs. affirmation — is there a difference?

Legally, they carry the same weight. An oath traditionally invokes a higher power ("so help me God"), while an affirmation is a purely secular promise to tell the truth. Texas and New Mexico notaries are required to offer the affirmation as an option for anyone who prefers not to swear a religious oath — you can ask for whichever one you're comfortable with.

Why it matters

Once you've taken the oath or affirmation and signed in the notary's presence, you've made a sworn statement. Signing a jurat document without genuinely intending to affirm its truthfulness can carry real legal consequences, since it's treated the same as testifying under oath. If anything in the document isn't accurate, that needs to be corrected before you sign — not after.

A notary can't tell you what to say beyond administering the oath itself, but we can always walk you through what the process looks like before appointment day so there are no surprises at the table.

I am not an attorney licensed to practice law in Texas and may not give legal advice or accept fees for legal advice. Royal Seal Notary provides notarization services only.