What are the requirements for the journal you keep?

• A. Physical: paper only; Electronic: not necessary
• B. Physical: bound but not numbered; Electronic: not required
• C. Physical: loose-leaf; Electronic: any digital file
• D. Physical: permanent-bound register with numbered pages; Electronic: permanent, tamper-evident electronic format and comply with SOS reg

Answer: (D)

The key idea here is how a notary must keep a safe, verifiable record of every notarial act, with strict format rules for both physical and electronic journals. For physical journals, the requirement is a permanent-bound register with numbered pages. That design prevents pages from being added, removed, or rearranged without leaving a trace, which helps maintain the integrity and traceability of each notarial act.

For electronic journals, the rule is a permanent, tamper-evident format and adherence to the Secretary of State’s regulations. A tamper-evident setup ensures that entries cannot be altered after they’re saved, and following SOS regulations guarantees the electronic system meets state standards for security, accessibility, and retention.

The other options don’t fit because they propose formats that don’t provide the same level of integrity and compliance. A loose-leaf or unbound physical journal isn’t as tamper-resistant or orderly as a permanently bound, numbered-volume journal. An electronic journal described as any digital file or as not required would fail to ensure the lasting, auditable, state-approved standard the act requires.