Regulations Surrounding Missouri Notary Public Seals
The office of notary public is one that is present in each of the 50 states. Despite the ubiquitous nature of the notary, there’s no standardized, overarching federal law that controls, regulates, or rules over notaries; instead, each notary public is regulated by the laws of their state.
Missouri is no different. When it comes to Missouri notary public stamp and seal regulations in particular, there are several that you should know about, especially if you’re considering becoming a notary in the state or you’re already going through the process.
Missouri is one of several states that allows its notaries to pick either an embossing seal or a black-inked rubber stamp as their primary Missouri notary public stamp or seal. However, it is slightly more common for Missouri notaries to use a rubber stamp in lieu of an embossing seal, as it’s a requirement for any stamp or seal affixed to a notarized document to be photographically reproducible.
This can be accomplished with an embossed seal if the notary shades or inks the seal to make it stand out, but the added inconvenience of doing so usually means that most notaries in Missouri stick with black ink stamps instead.
What Does a Missouri State Notary Seal Look Like?
As far as the content of a Missouri notary public stamp or seal, there are many requirements. The print used on the wording of a stamp or seal cannot be smaller than eight-point type, and the information that needs to be included on a Missouri notary public stamp or seal must contain the following:
- The name of the notary, exactly as it appears on their commission certificate
- The phrase “State of Missouri”
- The words “Notary Seal” and “Notary Public”
- The expiration date of the notary’s commission
- The county in which the notary is commissioned (only necessary on ink stamps)
Meanwhile, the Great Seal of the State of Missouri is not allowed to be used on a notary stamp or seal.
Where Can I Find Supplies and More Information?
Looking for even more information about becoming a notary in Missouri or how the rules regarding Missouri notary public stamps or seals? Please view the Notaries and Commissions section on the Missouri Secretary of State website.
You’re on your own when it comes time to getting your Missouri notary public stamp and seal. It’s your responsibility to provide it yourself, and that means you’ll need a good office supply company to meet the many requirements the state of Missouri has placed on proper stamp and seal appearance and use.
This is where we come in. Here at Acorn Sales Company Incorporated, we have years of experience in providing all manner of embosser seals and rubber stamps to our customers.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the current Missouri notary public seal requirements?
Missouri notaries must use a seal or stamp that includes the notary’s name exactly as it appears on the commission certificate, “State of Missouri,” the words “Notary Seal” and “Notary Public,” and the commission expiration date. For ink stamps, the county of commission must also be included. The print must be at least 8-point type, and the seal must be photographically reproducible.
Does Missouri allow both an embossing seal and a rubber notary stamp?
Yes. Missouri allows notaries to use either an embossing seal or a black-ink rubber stamp as their primary seal. However, most notaries choose a rubber stamp because it is easier to meet the state’s requirement that the seal be photographically reproducible.
What information must be on a Missouri notary stamp?
A compliant Missouri notary stamp should include the notary’s full name, “State of Missouri,” “Notary Seal,” “Notary Public,” and the commission expiration date. If you are using an ink stamp, it must also show the county where you are commissioned.
Can I use the Great Seal of the State of Missouri on my notary seal?
No. Missouri notaries are not allowed to use the Great Seal of the State of Missouri on a notary stamp or seal. Using the wrong seal design can make your notarizations noncompliant and may create issues with document acceptance.
Why does a Missouri notary seal need to be photographically reproducible?
Missouri requires notary seals to be photographically reproducible so the stamped impression remains clear and readable when documents are copied, scanned, or archived. This is one reason black-ink rubber stamps are often preferred over embossers unless the embossed seal is properly inked or shaded.
Where can I buy a compliant Missouri notary stamp or seal?
You can purchase a compliant Missouri notary stamp or seal from an office supply or notary supply company that understands state requirements. It’s important to choose a vendor that can ensure the design includes all required information and meets Missouri’s size and reproduction rules.
