New Jersey Notary Practice Exam

What must a notary public do before performing their initial notarial act remotely?

1. Obtain approval from their employer

2. Notify the state treasurer electronically

3. Purchase special equipment for remote notarization

4. Train for additional remote notarization protocols

The correct answer is: Notify the state treasurer electronically

Before a notary public performs their initial notarial act remotely, it is crucial to notify the state treasurer electronically. This requirement ensures that the state is aware of the notary's intent to conduct remote notarizations and allows the state to maintain oversight and regulate the practice effectively. By providing this notification, the notary ensures they are compliant with state laws regarding the use of technology in notarization. This step is intended to protect the integrity of the notarial process and uphold the standards required in remote notarizations. The need to notify the state treasurer also reflects the increasing adaptation of notarial practices in response to modern technology while still adhering to legal frameworks. While obtaining approval from an employer, purchasing special equipment, or undergoing additional training might be beneficial or required by some organizations, the primary regulatory step mandated at the state level is the electronic notification to the state treasurer. This foundational requirement is part of the broader efforts to ensure that remote notarizations are conducted securely and legally.