Key Takeaways
- New Jersey requires notaries to maintain a journal of all notarial acts
- The journal may be bound paper or electronic format
- Each entry must include specific required information
- Journal must be kept secure and retained for required period
- Journal may be subject to inspection
Last updated: January 2026
Journal Requirements
New Jersey requires notaries to maintain a journal (record book) of all notarial acts performed. The journal provides protection for both the notary and the public.
Journal Requirement
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Required? | Yes |
| Format | Bound book or electronic |
| One journal per notary | Yes |
| Chronological entries | Yes |
Journal Format Options
Paper Journal
| Feature | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Type | Bound book (not loose-leaf) |
| Pages | Sequentially numbered |
| Entries | Chronological order |
| Ink | Permanent (no pencil) |
Electronic Journal
| Feature | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Format | Secure electronic system |
| Backup | Regular backups required |
| Security | Password protected |
| Tampering | Must detect alterations |
Required Journal Entry Information
For each notarial act, record:
| Information | Example |
|---|---|
| Date and time | March 15, 2026 at 2:30 PM |
| Type of act | Acknowledgment |
| Type of document | Deed of Sale |
| Signer's name | John A. Smith |
| Signer's address | 123 Main St, Newark, NJ |
| ID type and number | NJ DL #D1234-56789-01234 |
| ID expiration | 03/15/2028 |
| Fee charged | $2.50 |
| Signer's signature | [Signature in journal] |
Sample Journal Entry
Entry #: 147
Date/Time: March 15, 2026, 2:30 PM
Type of Act: Acknowledgment
Document Type: Power of Attorney
Signer: Jane B. Doe
Address: 456 Oak Avenue, Trenton, NJ 08608
ID Presented: NJ Driver's License
ID Number: D9876-54321-00000
ID Expiration: 05/20/2027
Fee Charged: $2.50
Signer's Signature: _____________
Notes: None
Journal Security
| Security Measure | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Keep journal secure | Prevent unauthorized access |
| Control access | Only notary should make entries |
| Never alter entries | Line through errors, don't erase |
| Store safely | Protect from damage/theft |
Correcting Errors
If you make an error in a journal entry:
| Do | Don't |
|---|---|
| Draw single line through error | Use correction fluid |
| Write correct information nearby | Erase the entry |
| Initial and date correction | Leave blank spaces |
Journal Retention
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Retention period | Per state requirements |
| After commission ends | Retain or transfer properly |
| Upon death/incapacity | Transfer to authorities |
| If subpoenaed | Produce as required by law |
Benefits of Keeping a Journal
Even beyond legal requirements, a journal provides:
- Legal protection — Evidence you followed proper procedures
- Fraud deterrence — Signers know their info is recorded
- Memory aid — Record of past notarizations
- Audit trail — Documentation if questions arise
On the Exam
Expect 2-3 questions on journal requirements:
- Required: Yes, New Jersey requires a journal
- Format: Bound paper or electronic
- Required info: Date, type of act, signer info, ID details, fee
- Security: Keep secure, don't erase errors
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Test Your Knowledge
Is a notary journal required in New Jersey?
A
B
C
D
Test Your Knowledge
How should a notary correct an error in a journal entry?
A
B
C
D
Test Your Knowledge
Which of the following is NOT typically required in a journal entry?
A
B
C
D