Journal and Seal Requirements Flashcards

How long must an Arizona notary retain their journal after their commission ends?

Answer: 5 years

Arizona notaries must retain their journal for at least 5 years after their commission expires or is resigned. The journal may be needed as evidence in legal proceedings.

What should an Arizona notary do if their journal is lost or stolen?

Answer: Notify the Secretary of State promptly

If a journal is lost, stolen, or destroyed, the Arizona notary must notify the Secretary of State's office promptly. A police report should also be filed if theft is suspected.

An Arizona notary performs a notarization but forgets to make a journal entry. What should they do?

Answer: Make the entry as soon as possible with a note about the delay

While the journal entry should be made at the time of notarization, if overlooked, it should be recorded as soon as possible with a note indicating it was a delayed entry. The notarization itself remains valid.

What shape must an Arizona notary's seal impression be?

Answer: Either circular or rectangular

Arizona accepts both circular and rectangular seal formats. The key requirement is that all mandated information is clearly legible in the impression.

Can two Arizona notaries share a single journal?

Answer: No, each notary must maintain their own separate journal

Each Arizona notary must maintain their own individual journal. Journals are personal records tied to a specific notary's commission and cannot be shared.

What must an Arizona notary do with their seal when leaving it unattended at their office?

Answer: Keep it in a locked and secure location

Arizona notaries must keep their seal in a secure, locked location when not in use to prevent unauthorized access. The notary is responsible for all acts performed with their seal.