Journal & Record-Keeping
Ohio requires a journal for online notarizations and treats recordkeeping as central; a nonattorney notary should keep records of acts to protect against later challenge.
Journal for online acts
Ohio law requires an online notary to keep a journal of online notarizations and to retain the audio-video recording of each online act for the period set by rule (generally at least ten years). For traditional acts, keeping a journal is a strong best practice that documents each notarization and protects the notary.
What to record and retention
Recommended and (for online acts) required entries include the date and time, the type of act, the type of document, the signer's name and how identified, and the fee. Online-act journals and recordings must be securely retained and produced if lawfully requested. Store records under the notary's exclusive control.
State-specific details
State exam facts
- State regulator
- Ohio Secretary of State (Notary Commissions)
- Prelicensing education
- 3 hours (initial education; required of non-attorneys and attorneys)
- Passing score
- 80%
Does Ohio require a notary exam?
Yes for non-attorneys. Under the 2019 Notary Public Modernization Act, non-attorney applicants must complete a 3-hour education course and pass a proctored exam through a Secretary-of-State-authorized provider. Attorneys are exempt from the exam but must still take the education.
What score do I need to pass the Ohio notary exam?
The authorized testing providers require a score of at least 80% to pass the Ohio notary exam.
How long is an Ohio notary commission?
A non-attorney Ohio notary commission runs for 5 years.
Sources: https://www.ohiosos.gov/notary/, https://codes.ohio.gov/ohio-administrative-code/rule-111:6-1-03