Ohio Notary Practice Exam

What must be recorded in a notary's journal for each notarization?

1. Just the name of the signer

2. Date and time, type of notarization, and fee

3. Only the fee and the date of the document

4. Signer's name and purpose of notarization

The correct answer is: Date and time, type of notarization, and fee

The correct answer encompasses essential details that a notary must maintain in their journal for each notarization. Recording the date and time of the notarization provides a chronological reference, creating a clear timeline of when the act took place. Including the type of notarization gives context about what was performed, whether it was an acknowledgment, jurat, or another act, which is crucial for legal clarity. Additionally, noting the fee collected helps ensure transparency and accountability, as well as compliance with any relevant laws regarding notary compensation. This practice aids in protecting both the notary and the signer in case of future disputes or inquiries about the notarization. The other options lack the comprehensiveness required by best practices and legal standards for notaries. For example, only recording the signer's name or the fee without the other details could lead to insufficient documentation and potential liability issues.