Key Takeaways
- Montana requires a rectangular ink stamp approximately 1" x 2.5"
- Must include name, title, "Residing at" location, and expiration date
- Only blue or black ink permitted
- Notary is responsible for obtaining and maintaining the seal
- Secretary of State does not provide the seal
Last updated: January 2026
Montana Notary Seal/Stamp Requirements
Since October 1, 2013, all Montana notaries must use an official ink stamp meeting specific requirements.
Stamp Specifications
| Specification | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Shape | Rectangular |
| Size | Approximately 1" x 2.5" |
| Type | Ink stamp unit |
| Ink Colors | Blue or black ONLY |
Required Information
The stamp must contain:
| Element | Format |
|---|---|
| Notary's Name | Printed name as commissioned |
| Title | "Notary Public for the State of Montana" |
| Location | "Residing at [city or town]" |
| Expiration Date | Month/Day/Four-Digit Year (e.g., 01/15/2030) |
Sample Stamp Layout
┌─────────────────────────────────────────┐
│ JOHN Q. NOTARY │
│ Notary Public for the State of Montana │
│ Residing at Helena │
│ My Commission Expires: 01/15/2030 │
└─────────────────────────────────────────┘
Important Rules
Obtaining Your Stamp
- Notary's responsibility — Secretary of State does not provide
- After commission issued — Obtain after receiving commission
- Before first act — Must have stamp before notarizing
Stamp Maintenance
| Situation | Required Action |
|---|---|
| Name change | Obtain new stamp with new name |
| Address/city change | Obtain new stamp with new location |
| Renewal | Obtain new stamp with new expiration date |
| Commission expiration | Stop using, destroy or deface old stamp |
Expiration Date Format
| Correct | Incorrect |
|---|---|
| 01/15/2030 | 01/15/30 |
| 12/31/2029 | December 2029 |
| Month/Day/4-digit Year | Fill-in blanks |
Note: The expiration date must be complete. It is NOT acceptable to "fill in" the year or use a two-digit year.
When Information Changes
If any information in your stamp changes during your term:
- Obtain a new stamp immediately
- Destroy or deface the old stamp
- Update the Secretary of State if required
Electronic Seals (for RON)
For Remote Online Notarization:
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Format | Exact copy of ink stamp design |
| Signature | Photocopy of "wet" signature |
| Application | Applied electronically to documents |
Stamp Security
| Do | Don't |
|---|---|
| Keep stamp secure | Leave stamp unattended |
| Control access | Allow others to use it |
| Deface when expired | Keep old stamps intact |
| Report if stolen | Ignore theft or loss |
Cessation of Commission
When your commission ends:
- Destroy or deface the stamp to prevent misuse
- Do not give it to another person
- Do not continue using it for any purpose
On the Exam
- Rectangular shape: Required since 2013
- Blue or black ink: Only acceptable colors
- Full expiration date: Month/Day/4-digit Year
- Notary obtains: SOS does not provide stamps
- Replace if info changes: New stamp required for changes
Test Your Knowledge
What ink colors are acceptable for a Montana notary stamp?
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Test Your Knowledge
What shape must a Montana notary stamp be?
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Test Your Knowledge
A Montana notary moves from Billings to Missoula. What must they do about their stamp?
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