Does a Florida notary have to keep a journal?

Full explanation

Even though Florida does not mandate a journal for traditional acts, keeping one is strongly recommended — it is the notary's only contemporaneous record if a signature is later challenged. Online notaries have no discretion: the electronic journal and the recording of the audio-video session are required and must be retained.

Florida rules

Section 117.245, Florida Statutes, requires an online notary public to keep an electronic journal of online notarizations and to retain the journal and the audio-video recording for the period specified in the statute.

Common mistake to avoid

Do not treat "no journal required" as "no records needed." Without a journal you have no evidence.

Sources & References

• Chapter 117, Florida Statutes — Notaries Public — Florida Legislature official source

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