Can you clarify if the state of Florida requires a Notary to document in a journal entry where the identification used by the signer was issued? For example, if the signer used a driver’s license, do you need to write in the journal “Florida Driver’s License”? — G. M., Florida
A journal is not required for paper notarizations in Florida but is required for online notarizations. Assuming you are performing an online notarization, the statute requires a “notation of the type of government-issued identification credential provided to the online notary public” (FS 117.245[1]). As a journal for paper notarizations is only recommended and not required, there are no specific journal entry requirements. Adding a description of the ID and specifics like the state where the ID was issued is a good standard of professional care.
For more information about Notary journal entry requirements in other states, please see our article “A Notary’s guide to completing journal entries.”
Hotline answers are based on the laws in the state where the question originated and may not reflect the laws of other states. If in doubt, always refer to your own state statutes. – The Editors
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