Unique Aspects of the Utah Notary Public Seal
Unlike many states, notaries in Utah are appointed by the lieutenant governor and anyone interested in becoming a notary can learn about the application process by visiting the lieutenant governor's website. Interestingly enough, this is not the only way that notaries in Utah differ from others.
For instance, among the most relevant Utah notary supplies are what are known as "notary seals" and according to the state's guidelines, they must be in the form of an ink stamp, AND the ink stamp has to print in purple.
Of course, that is getting a bit ahead of things as we need to consider what other Utah notary supplies you may require in addition to a seal.
Steps to Take to Become a Utah State Notary
To begin with, anyone who wants to serve as a notary in the state will need to know the different qualifications that apply. If they meet them, they can then start to build their application package. This has to include:
- Taking and passing the state exam
- Obtaining and having proof of a surety or notary bond in the amount of $5k
- Paying all applicable fees
- A completed application and oath
With these Utah notary supplies and documents together, you can then obtain your commission to serve as a notary. The term of office is for four years and you always have the option of renewing - though the exam is not required with each renewal.
Once you do have a commission, along with a formal Notary Certificate (which includes your expiration information and commission number) you can then obtain that most important of Utah notary supplies - the notary seal.
Requirements for the Design of Your Utah Seal
Just like other states, the seal has to meet specific design requirements. We already mentioned the unique purple inking stamp, but the other criteria include:
- It must be photographically reproducible
- It must use purple ink
- It will feature the notary's name as commissioned
- It will feature the title written as "Notary Public"
- It will feature the state's name written as "State of Utah"
- It must feature the current expiration date for the commission written as "My commission expires" followed by the date
- There must be a reproduction of the great seal of the state
- The seal is rectangular and sized at 1" x 2.5", and it must have a visible border
- An embossed seal can be used in conjunction with the ink stamp, but not independent of it
Other Supplies You Might Need and Your Duties as a Utah Notary
In addition to this most significant of your Utah notary supplies, you may want to consider the maintenance of a journal. Though the state never requires notaries to feature record books or journals among their Utah notary supplies, and indicates that some statutory requirements apply if a journal is kept, it just makes sense to have one among your Utah notary supplies.
After all, as many states note when they consider the use of record books - you may be called upon to testify about a notarial act at some point in time and it can be remarkably beneficial to have maintained clear records of every item you notarized.
If you do decide to keep a journal as part of your Utah notary supplies, you will use it to document each notarial act, and these include your authorized duties to:
- Certify copies
- Take acknowledgements
- Execute jurats
- Take proofs
- Administer oaths
- Administer affirmations
Clearly, these are all very important acts and your Utah notary supplies should evidence your professionalism and attention to detail whenever you perform them. Your Utah notary supplies should be of the utmost quality. The seal has to print sharply, legibly and clearly, and should be provided by a reputable vendor of Utah notary supplies.
Remember too that the seal has to feature a reproduction of the state's seal, and it is only the finer providers of Utah notary supplies that can be counted on to have such unique graphics on hand. Additionally, there are other elements of a seal that must fit in with specific guidelines, and experienced makers of Utah notary supplies tend to have the solutions you need. Put your most professional image forward when you complete each notarial act using the highest quality supplies available.
Frequently Asked Questions
What supplies do I need to become a Utah notary public?
To become a Utah notary public, you’ll typically need a completed application and oath, proof of a $5,000 surety or notary bond, payment of required fees, and passing the state exam. Once commissioned, your essential Utah notary supplies include a compliant Utah notary stamp or seal. A notary journal is not required by the state, but many notaries choose to use one for better recordkeeping and professionalism.
What are the Utah notary stamp requirements?
A Utah notary stamp must be an ink stamp that prints in purple ink. It must be photographically reproducible and include your name as commissioned, the title “Notary Public,” the words “State of Utah,” your commission expiration date written as “My commission expires” followed by the date, and a reproduction of the great seal of the state. The stamp must also be rectangular, sized at 1" x 2.5", and have a visible border.
Is a notary journal required in Utah?
No, a notary journal is not required among Utah notary supplies. However, keeping one is highly recommended because it helps you maintain clear records of notarial acts, which can be useful if you are ever asked to testify or verify a notarization. Many Utah notaries use a journal to document acknowledgments, jurats, oaths, affirmations, proofs, and certified copies.
Can I use an embossed seal instead of a Utah notary stamp?
No, an embossed seal cannot be used on its own in Utah. The state requires a purple ink stamp as the official notary seal. An embossed seal may be used in conjunction with the ink stamp, but it does not replace the required Utah notary stamp.
How long is a Utah notary commission valid?
A Utah notary commission is valid for four years. When your commission is renewed, you do not have to retake the exam each time. Be sure your notary stamp includes your current expiration date so it stays compliant throughout your commission term.
Where can I buy compliant Utah notary supplies?
You should purchase your Utah notary supplies from a reputable vendor that is familiar with state requirements. A trusted supplier can help ensure your Utah notary stamp meets all design rules, including the purple ink, proper dimensions, border, expiration date, and required wording. Buying from an experienced vendor helps prevent delays and compliance issues.
