Key Takeaways
- Journal keeping is not legally required for traditional acts (but recommended)
- RON requires electronic journal and A/V recording
- Acts should be retained securely for potential future reference
- Orleans Parish has special archival requirements
- Best practice is to maintain detailed records of all notarial acts
Last updated: January 2026
Record-Keeping Requirements
Unlike some states, Louisiana does not have extensive mandatory journal requirements for traditional notarial acts, but maintaining records is strongly recommended.
Traditional Notarial Acts
| Requirement | Louisiana Rule |
|---|---|
| Journal Required? | Not legally mandated |
| Recommended? | Yes, strongly |
| Format | Paper or electronic |
| Retention | Indefinite recommended |
What Records to Keep (Best Practice)
Even though not legally required, prudent notaries maintain:
| Record Type | Information to Include |
|---|---|
| Date | Date and time of notarization |
| Type of Act | Acknowledgment, oath, authentic act, etc. |
| Document Description | Brief description of document |
| Parties | Names of all signers |
| ID Verification | Type of ID presented |
| Witnesses | Names of witnesses (if applicable) |
| Fees | Fee charged (if any) |
Remote Online Notarization (RON) Records
RON has stricter record requirements:
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Electronic Journal | Required by RON platform |
| Audio/Video Recording | Recorded by platform |
| Retention | Per platform and state requirements |
| Storage | Secure electronic storage |
Orleans Parish Special Requirements
Orleans Parish has unique archival traditions:
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Notarial Archives | Maintained separately |
| Deposit | Certain acts must be deposited |
| Custodian | Custodian of notarial records |
| Historical | Dating to French colonial period |
Commission Records
Notaries must maintain their own commission records:
| Document | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Commission Certificate | Proof of authority |
| Bond | Proof of financial responsibility |
| Oaths | Filed copies of oaths |
| Signature Page | Official notarial signature |
Recording vs. Record-Keeping
| Concept | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Recording | Filing with parish recorder (public record) |
| Record-Keeping | Notary's personal records of acts performed |
Why Record-Keeping Matters
| Reason | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Defense | Protects against claims of impropriety |
| Reference | Recall details of past transactions |
| Verification | Confirm acts were properly performed |
| Professional | Demonstrates diligence and care |
Document Retention Recommendations
| Document Type | Recommended Retention |
|---|---|
| Real Estate Acts | Indefinitely |
| Wills/Successions | Indefinitely |
| Powers of Attorney | Until confirmed revoked/expired |
| Simple Acknowledgments | 7-10 years minimum |
| General Records | 7-10 years minimum |
Electronic Records
| Consideration | Guidance |
|---|---|
| Backup | Maintain secure backups |
| Format | Use standard, accessible formats |
| Security | Protect from unauthorized access |
| Accessibility | Ensure long-term accessibility |
On the Exam
- Journal required? Not legally mandated (but recommended)
- RON records: E-journal and A/V required
- Orleans Parish: Special archival requirements
- Best practice: Maintain detailed records
Test Your Knowledge
Is maintaining a journal of notarial acts legally required in Louisiana for traditional (non-RON) notarizations?
A
B
C
D
Test Your Knowledge
What additional record-keeping is required for Remote Online Notarization (RON) in Louisiana?
A
B
C
D