Illinois Notary Primer Practice Exam

What is the purpose of a notary journal?

1. To store personal information about signers

2. To maintain a record of all notarial acts performed

3. To track fees collected

4. To compile a list of credible witnesses

The correct answer is: To maintain a record of all notarial acts performed

The purpose of a notary journal is to maintain a record of all notarial acts performed. This journal serves as an essential tool for notaries to document every transaction in which they provide their services, ensuring that there is a reliable account of the acts, the signers involved, the dates, and other pertinent details. This record-keeping is vital for legal and accountability reasons, as it establishes a transparent history of the notary's activities. In the case of disputes or inquiries regarding a notarization, the notary journal can provide evidence and clarity about the transaction, helping to protect both the notary and the parties involved. While tracking fees collected, storing personal information about signers, or compiling a list of credible witnesses might have their own benefits, they do not encapsulate the primary and most critical function of a notary journal, which is specifically to chronicle the notarial acts performed accurately and comprehensively.