Notary Record Book Requirements Flashcards

Is it legally required for a traditional (non-RON) Texas notary to maintain a notary record book?

Answer: No, Texas statute does not require traditional notaries to keep a record book

Unlike remote online notaries, traditional Texas notaries are not legally required by statute to maintain a record book, though it is strongly recommended.

What is the recommended reason for a Texas notary to keep a record book even though it is not legally required?

Answer: To provide evidence of the notarial act if a fraud claim or dispute arises

A record book serves as contemporaneous documentation that can help the notary prove they properly performed a notarization if it is later challenged.

What information is typically recorded in a Texas notary's record book for each notarial act?

Answer: The date, type of act, document description, signer's name and address, ID type and number, and fee charged

A comprehensive record book entry includes: date, act type, document description, signer information, ID details, and fees charged.

For how long should a Texas traditional notary retain their record book after their commission expires?

Answer: At least 3 years

While not legally mandated, the Secretary of State recommends retaining the record book for at least 3 years after the commission expires.

What should a Texas notary do with their record book if the notary passes away during their commission term?

Answer: The book should be delivered to the county clerk or the executor of the estate for safekeeping

If a notary passes away, their record book should be transferred to the county clerk or preserved by the estate to protect the records of past notarial acts.

Which Texas notaries are REQUIRED by law to maintain an electronic record of all notarial acts?

Answer: Remote online notarization (RON) notaries

Texas law specifically requires RON notaries to maintain an electronic record of each notarial act, including an audio-visual recording.