What document must a notary keep as part of their records?

The requirement for a notary to maintain a record of each notarial act performed is critical for ensuring transparency and accountability in the notarial process. This record-keeping is known as a notary journal or logbook, and it typically includes essential details such as the date of the notarial act, the types of acts performed, the names and signatures of the signers, and the type of identification presented.

This record serves multiple purposes: it provides a verifiable account of the notary’s activities, can be used to defend the notary against any future disputes or allegations of misconduct, and helps maintain the integrity of the notarial process. By keeping a detailed record of notarial acts, notaries contribute to the overall trustworthiness of the system, ensuring that there is a reliable audit trail that can be reviewed if necessary.

In contrast, other options do not align with the legal requirements for notarial practice. For instance, while notaries may need to handle original notarized documents, they are not required to keep them as part of their official records. The identification of signers must be verified, but requirements regarding retention may vary, and the notary journal is the principal record of notarial acts. A state-issued certification is essential for