NJ Notary Journal and Seal Requirements 3

Question 1

A New Jersey notary public is asked by a client to show them all entries in the notary's journal related to the client's previous transactions. Is the notary required to grant this access?

Accepted Answer

The notary may allow inspection of entries related to the requesting party's own transactions

Answer

Yes, all journal entries are public records open to anyone

Answer

Only if the client obtains a court order

Answer

No, journal entries are strictly confidential and cannot be shown to anyone

Question 2

Under New Jersey law, in what format may a notary's official seal be used?

Accepted Answer

Either an inked stamp or an embossed seal, as long as it produces a legible impression

Answer

Embossed seal only — inked stamps are not permitted

Answer

Inked rubber stamp only — embossed seals are not permitted

Answer

Any self-designed mark accepted by both parties

Question 3

A New Jersey notary's seal stamp is lost or stolen. What immediate steps should the notary take?

Accepted Answer

Order a replacement seal and notify the State Treasurer of the loss

Answer

Wait to see if it is returned before taking any action

Answer

Continue performing notarial acts using a written description of the seal

Answer

Resign the commission since the seal cannot be replaced

Question 4

Under New Jersey's RON (Remote Online Notarization) rules, how long must audio-visual recordings of remote notarization sessions be retained?

Accepted Answer

10 years

Answer

1 year

Answer

3 years

Answer

5 years

Question 5

A new New Jersey notary has just received their commission certificate. What should they do before performing any notarial acts?

Accepted Answer

Obtain an official notarial seal and ensure their surety bond is filed

Answer

Wait 30 days for the commission to activate

Answer

File their signature with every county clerk in the state

Answer

Complete a mandatory 8-hour training course

Question 6

What is the recommended best practice for storing a New Jersey notary's official journal?

Accepted Answer

In a secure location accessible only to the notary

Answer

In an unlocked desk drawer for easy access

Answer

Filed with the employer's business records for joint access

Answer

Emailed to the State Treasurer's office for safekeeping