Notary Record Book Requirements Flashcards

What should a Texas notary do if a member of the public requests to inspect the notary's record book?

Answer: Use judgment: the notary may share relevant entries while protecting private information of third parties

The notary should use reasonable judgment, sharing relevant information when legitimately needed while protecting the privacy of other signers recorded in the book.

If a Texas notary's record book is subpoenaed in a legal proceeding, what must the notary do?

Answer: Comply with the subpoena and produce the records as ordered

A validly issued subpoena is a court order; the notary must comply and produce the records requested, subject to any valid legal objections raised by counsel.

May a Texas notary allow their employer to retain the notary's record book as business property?

Answer: No, the record book belongs to the notary personally, not the employer

The notary's record book is the personal property of the notary who created it, not of the employer, even if the notary performed acts in the course of employment.

In a Texas notary record book, what is the purpose of obtaining the signer's thumbprint?

Answer: It serves as additional biometric evidence of the signer's presence to deter fraud

A thumbprint entry provides strong biometric evidence that the actual signer appeared before the notary, making it harder for impostors to deny their involvement.

What type of notary in Texas must use a Secretary of State-approved electronic record system?

Answer: Remote online notarization (RON) notaries

RON-authorized notaries must use an approved remote online notarization platform that includes an electronic record system complying with Texas RON rules.

Can a Texas notary charge a fee for allowing a person to inspect or copy entries from their record book?

Answer: Yes, a reasonable fee for time and reproduction costs may be charged

Since Texas notary record books are not public records and the notary is not required to provide copies, a reasonable fee for time and reproduction may be charged.