As a notary in North Dakota you have the state's authorization to perform a wide array of tasks, and each is marked by your North Dakota Notary Public stamp and seal. This makes you legally liable for the document and whatever it is that the document indicates. That is a big deal, and it is why you will have to pass the state test and get a commission before ever using that North Dakota Notary Public stamp and seal.
What Duties Does a North Dakota Notary Have the Right to Perform?
The state views any notary as a public ministerial officer, and because of that you have the right to perform such notarial acts as:
- Administering an oath or affirmation
- Taking an acknowledgement
- Taking a verification on oath or affirmation
- Certifying a copy
- Witnessing or attesting a signature
- Noting protest of a negotiable instrument
In all instances, your North Dakota Notary Public stamp and seal will be put to use, and will guarantee that you do not have any part in the transaction, that you are not named in the document (except as the notary) and that you have no benefit in the matter. If all of these things are true, you can serve as the notary and use the North Dakota Notary Public stamp and seal because you are truly impartial.
What Will the North Dakota State Notary Seal Look Like?
Of course, impartial does not mean indifferent, and you have to pay great attention to what you are doing any time you notarize documents and apply the North Dakota Notary Public stamp and seal. It creates a true liability for you, meaning you must be professional and vigilant when doing your duty.
You must also use the North Dakota Notary Public stamp and seal expertly.
That means ensuring it meets the state's guidelines. These include:- Being certified prior to purchasing the North Dakota Notary Public stamp and seal
- Any North Dakota Notary Public stamp and seal must feature the phrase "Notary Public" and "State of North Dakota"
- Your North Dakota Notary Public stamp and seal must show your full name (the one commissioned)
- The expiration of your commission must also appear on the North Dakota Notary Public stamp and seal
- Seals and stamps can be circular or rectangular. If round, it must 1 to 5/8", and if rectangular it must measure at least 7/8"x2 to 5/8"
- Any North Dakota Notary Public stamp and seal must feature a clearly visible border
Though many states allow or require a state seal, the North Dakota stamps prohibit this image. Additionally, it is the notary who must acquire their stamp and ensure that the information is correct. Both name changes and new commission expiration dates require that the proper documentation be submitted to the state and that the stamp be updated accordingly.
A commission expires in four years, and it is the responsibility of the notary to take steps to ensure that they have the new stamp or seal by the date that the new commission must begin.
Working with a reputable vendor of notary stamps and seals is the ideal way to be sure yours is effective throughout the entire commission. Because rubber stamps may tend to begin blurring over time, you will want to be certain that your vendor supplies top quality goods. The seal must always be reproducible photographically, and an illegible or blurry stamp is not acceptable. Don't jeopardize your professional reputation or image by using a poor quality seal or stamp. It is the main tool of your work as a notary and has to stand up to the task!
Frequently Asked Questions
What information must be included on a North Dakota Notary Public stamp or seal?
A North Dakota Notary Public stamp or seal must include the words “Notary Public” and “State of North Dakota,” your full commissioned name, your commission expiration date, and a clearly visible border. The seal must also be legible and reproducible photographically.
What size and shape can a North Dakota notary stamp or seal be?
A North Dakota notary stamp or seal may be either circular or rectangular. If it is round, it must be 1 to 5/8 inches in diameter. If it is rectangular, it must be at least 7/8 inch by 2 to 5/8 inches.
Can I buy my North Dakota notary stamp before I am commissioned?
No. You must be officially commissioned before purchasing and using a North Dakota Notary Public stamp or seal. The stamp should reflect your approved notary information and commission details.
Does a North Dakota notary stamp have to include the state seal?
No. North Dakota notary stamps and seals must not feature the state seal image. Instead, the stamp should follow the state’s required wording, name, expiration date, and border guidelines.
When do I need to update my North Dakota notary stamp or seal?
You need to update your North Dakota notary stamp or seal whenever your name changes or your commission expiration date changes. Since a North Dakota notary commission lasts four years, you should make sure your new stamp is ready before your next commission begins.
What should I do if my North Dakota notary stamp becomes blurry or hard to read?
Replace it as soon as possible. A North Dakota notary stamp or seal must remain clear and legible, and a blurry or poorly reproduced impression can create problems for notarizations. Using a high-quality stamp helps protect your professional reputation and keeps your notarizations compliant.
