What must a remote online notary public apply to an electronic document prior to using a digital certificate?

The correct answer is that the remote online notary public must apply the electronic signature, notarial certificate, and electronic notary seal to an electronic document prior to using a digital certificate. This multi-step process ensures that the notarial act is valid and recognizable by all parties involved, as well as compliant with legal requirements.

Applying an electronic signature signifies the notary's acknowledgment and approval of the document's contents, while the notarial certificate serves as proof of the notarial act itself, detailing essential information such as the date, the nature of the act, and the parties involved. Additionally, the electronic notary seal provides a unique identifier for the notary, adding a layer of security and authenticity to the transaction. Together, these components are critical to ensure that the notarization is legally binding and effectively protects all parties' interests.

The other options do not encompass the essential elements required for a valid electronic notarization. For instance, printing and signing the document contradicts the nature of remote online notarization, which is designed for digital formats. Similarly, while client approval is important in the overall process, it does not fulfill the specific requirements of applying the necessary components to the electronic document for the notary's credentials to be recognized. A backup copy is