When must a notary keep a record of their notarial acts?

A notary must keep a record of their notarial acts, especially for remote notarizations, to maintain transparency and accountability in their role. This record-keeping is crucial for several reasons: it provides a detailed log of the notary's activities, which can serve as evidence if questions arise about the notarization's legitimacy. In cases of remote notarizations, it is particularly important as the process lacks the physical presence of the signer, so documentation becomes vital in confirming the identity and consent of the individuals involved. Keeping a consistent record also aligns with the established standards and best practices for notarial conduct, ensuring compliance with statutory requirements.

Other options suggest situations where record-keeping is discretionary or limited, but in practice, maintaining a comprehensive record of all notarial acts, especially in remote settings, is the recommended standard to uphold professionalism and legal integrity in notary work.