Key Takeaways
- Oregon notaries must have an official stamp (seal) to perform notarizations
- The stamp must include name, "Notary Public - Oregon," and commission expiration
- The notary is responsible for keeping the stamp secure at all times
- The stamp must be destroyed or disabled when the commission ends
- You cannot notarize until you receive your commission certificate and obtain your stamp
Last updated: January 2026
Seal and Stamp Requirements
Oregon notaries must have an official stamp to perform notarial acts. The stamp serves as the official seal for all purposes under Oregon law.
Obtaining Your Stamp
After your commission is approved, the Secretary of State emails:
- Notary Commission Certificate
- Certificate of Authorization for an official notary stamp
Important: You CANNOT notarize until:
- Your commission is issued
- You have obtained your official stamp
Required Stamp Information
| Element | Required |
|---|---|
| Notary's name | As it appears on commission |
| "Notary Public" | Required wording |
| "Oregon" or "State of Oregon" | Required wording |
| Commission expiration date | Required |
| Commission number | Recommended |
Stamp Format Options
| Format | Allowed in Oregon |
|---|---|
| Rubber ink stamp | Yes (most common) |
| Embosser | Yes |
| Combination | Yes |
| Electronic stamp | Yes (for RON) |
Preference: Rubber ink stamps are preferred because they:
- Photograph clearly for recording
- Are easier to verify
- Show up on copies
Stamp Security Requirements
| Requirement | Detail |
|---|---|
| Sole possession | Only notary may use stamp |
| Secure storage | Lock when not in use |
| No lending | Cannot allow others to use |
| Report theft/loss | Notify SOS immediately |
Critical Rule: The notary is responsible for security of the stamp and may NOT allow another individual to use it.
Using the Stamp
For every notarial act on a tangible (paper) document:
- Complete the notarial certificate
- Sign your name (same as on file with SOS)
- Affix your stamp clearly
- Ensure stamp is legible
Stamp Placement
| Guideline | Reason |
|---|---|
| Near your signature | Associates stamp with signature |
| On same page as certificate | Keeps elements together |
| Clear impression | Must be readable |
| No overlapping signatures | Avoid obscuring information |
Commission Expiration
When your commission expires or terminates:
| Action Required | Deadline |
|---|---|
| Stop notarizing | Immediately upon expiration |
| Disable stamp | Upon expiration/termination |
| Destroy or deface | Render unusable |
Methods to Disable Stamp
- Destroy the stamp
- Deface it (scratch through rubber)
- Damage it beyond use
- Secure it so it cannot be used
- Surrender to Secretary of State (if revoked)
Stamp vs. Seal
In Oregon:
- Stamp = the device you use to make an impression
- Seal = the impression itself
- They are often used interchangeably
- The "official stamp" IS the official seal under Oregon law
On the Exam
- Cannot notarize without stamp: Wait for commission + stamp
- Security: Notary responsible, no lending
- Disable on expiration: Required action
- Required elements: Name, Notary Public, Oregon, expiration date
Test Your Knowledge
When can you begin performing notarizations after applying?
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Test Your Knowledge
What must you do with your notary stamp when your commission expires?
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