Key Takeaways
- New Jersey requires a rubber stamp ink seal
- The seal must include the notary's name and "Notary Public of New Jersey"
- Commission expiration date must be on the seal
- The seal must be affixed near the notary's signature
- Keep your seal secure—you are responsible for its use
Last updated: January 2026
Notary Seal Requirements
The notary seal is an essential tool that authenticates your notarial acts. New Jersey has specific requirements for what the seal must contain and how it must be used.
New Jersey Seal Requirements
Type of Seal
New Jersey requires a rubber stamp ink seal. Embossers alone are not acceptable.
| Seal Type | Acceptable? |
|---|---|
| Rubber stamp (ink) | Yes (Required) |
| Embosser only | No |
| Embosser + rubber stamp | Yes |
Required Seal Information
Your seal must contain:
| Element | Required |
|---|---|
| Notary's Name | As commissioned |
| Title | "Notary Public of New Jersey" |
| Commission Expiration | Date commission expires |
Example Seal Format
┌─────────────────────────────┐
│ JOHN A. SMITH │
│ Notary Public of New Jersey │
│ My Commission Expires: │
│ March 15, 2029 │
└─────────────────────────────┘
Proper Use of the Seal
When to Apply the Seal
Apply your seal:
- After completing the notarial act
- After signing the certificate
- Near your signature (not over it)
Where to Place the Seal
| Location | Acceptable? |
|---|---|
| Near signature | Yes (Preferred) |
| Over signature | No (Obscures signature) |
| On a separate page | No (Must be on certificate) |
| On the document margins | Sometimes (if no room near signature) |
Seal Impression Quality
Ensure your seal impression is:
- Clear and legible
- Complete (all information visible)
- Not smudged
- Dark enough to photocopy
Seal Security
Your seal is your responsibility. Protect it from misuse:
Security Best Practices
| Practice | Reason |
|---|---|
| Store seal securely | Prevent unauthorized use |
| Never lend your seal | You're responsible for its use |
| Don't pre-stamp documents | Could enable fraud |
| Report lost/stolen seals | Protect yourself from liability |
If Your Seal Is Lost or Stolen
- Stop using that seal immediately
- Notify the Division of Revenue and Enterprise Services
- Obtain a new seal
- Document the incident
When Your Commission Expires
When your commission expires, you must:
| Action | Details |
|---|---|
| Stop using the seal | Cannot notarize after expiration |
| Destroy the seal | Prevent misuse |
| Get a new seal | After renewal/recommission |
On the Exam
Expect 2-3 questions on seal requirements:
- Seal type: Rubber stamp ink seal required
- Required info: Name, title, expiration date
- Placement: Near signature, not over it
- Security: Keep seal secure, never lend it
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Test Your Knowledge
What type of seal is required for New Jersey notaries?
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What should a notary do if their seal is lost or stolen?
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