Key Takeaways
- New Jersey permits electronic notarization of electronic documents
- Electronic signatures must meet specific requirements
- Electronic seals must be secure and tamper-evident
- Electronic records must be retained just like paper records
- Not all documents can be notarized electronically
Last updated: January 2026
Electronic Notarization
New Jersey permits electronic notarization, allowing notaries to perform notarial acts on electronic documents. This section covers the requirements and procedures for electronic notarization.
What Is Electronic Notarization?
Electronic notarization (or "e-notarization") is the notarization of an electronic document using electronic signatures and seals.
| Component | Electronic Version |
|---|---|
| Document | Electronic file (PDF, etc.) |
| Signature | Electronic signature |
| Seal | Electronic seal |
| Journal | Electronic record |
Electronic vs. Remote Notarization
These terms are different:
| Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Electronic Notarization | Notarizing electronic documents (in-person) |
| Remote Online Notarization (RON) | Notarizing via video technology (remote) |
You can have:
- In-person notarization of paper documents (traditional)
- In-person notarization of electronic documents (electronic)
- Remote notarization of electronic documents (RON)
Requirements for Electronic Notarization
Electronic Signature Requirements
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Unique to notary | Cannot be shared |
| Capable of verification | Can be authenticated |
| Under notary's control | Notary controls access |
| Linked to document | Changes to document are detectable |
Electronic Seal Requirements
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Contains required info | Same info as physical seal |
| Secure | Protected from unauthorized use |
| Tamper-evident | Alterations detectable |
| Attached to document | Part of the electronic record |
Documents That Can Be E-Notarized
New Jersey permits electronic notarization for:
| Document Type | Permitted? |
|---|---|
| Contracts | Yes |
| Powers of Attorney | Yes |
| Acknowledgments generally | Yes |
| Real estate documents | Yes |
| Wills and codicils | Limited (special rules apply) |
Security Requirements
Electronic notarization requires security measures:
| Security Measure | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Password protection | Prevent unauthorized access |
| Encryption | Protect data in transit |
| Audit trail | Track access and changes |
| Backup systems | Prevent data loss |
Electronic Journal Entries
For electronic notarizations, journal entries must include:
| Entry Element | Requirement |
|---|---|
| All standard entry info | Same as paper notarizations |
| Method used | Note that it was electronic |
| Platform/system | Name of software used |
On the Exam
Expect 2-3 questions on electronic notarization:
- Definition: Notarizing electronic documents
- Electronic vs. RON: Electronic can be in-person
- Security: Tamper-evident seals required
- Records: Same retention as paper records
Test Your Knowledge
What is the difference between electronic notarization and remote online notarization?
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Test Your Knowledge
What is required for an electronic notary seal?
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