How Louisiana's Rules Differ From Those of Other States
In most states, the office of notary public requires the notary to possess either an embossed seal or a rubber stamp to serve as their seal of office. The stamp or seal is routinely affixed to documents being notarized, and many states have some very stringent rules about what can and cannot appear on a notary public stamp or seal.
However, since notaries are state-specific, this means that while many states will have similar regulations, no two states are the same. In some cases, some states might not even require a stamp or seal at all.
In the case of Louisiana notary public stamp and seal requirements, for example, the notary’s signature itself is considered their seal – an embossed seal or a rubber stamp is completely optional.
What this means is that notaries public within the state don’t have to go through the effort of getting a Louisiana notary public stamp or seal made at all. However, this also means that since it’s an option, notaries can still get a stamp or seal made if they want – and the design of their own personal Louisiana notary public stamp or seal is largely up to the individual.
What Your Seal Will Look Like If You Choose to Have One
In most cases, Louisiana notary public stamps or seals are either round or rectangular and include the words “Notary Public” and the name of the notary using the stamp or seal. Additionally, most notaries will choose to have the words “State of Louisiana” or at least the name of their home parish (the Louisiana equivalent of a county in most other states) listed as well. Others will choose to include their commission number and the expiration date for that commission. When choosing a circular Louisiana notary public stamp or seal, many
notaries will choose to have a version of Louisiana’s state seal, which is an image of a pelican.If you have more specific questions about Louisiana notary public stamps and seals, or if you want to learn more about the process of becoming a notary in the state of Louisiana, visit the Notary and Certifications section of the Louisiana Secretary of State website.
Just because you don’t need a Louisiana notary public stamp or seal doesn’t mean you can’t have one. If you want one of these stamps or seals, don’t turn to just any office supply store – rely on Acorn Sales Company Incorporated to provide you with either an embossed seal or a rubber stamp that meets your aesthetic needs and desires. With more than 50 years in the business, Acorn Sales knows what it takes to provide you with a beautiful and functional Louisiana notary public stamp or seal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Louisiana require a notary public seal or stamp?
No. In Louisiana, a notary’s signature is considered the notary’s seal, so a rubber stamp or embossed seal is optional rather than required. That said, many notaries still choose to use a seal for a more professional appearance and easier document identification.
What information should be included on a Louisiana notary seal if I choose to have one?
A Louisiana notary seal typically includes the words “Notary Public” and the notary’s name. Many seals also include “State of Louisiana,” the notary’s parish, commission number, and commission expiration date. Some notaries choose a pelican design to reflect Louisiana’s state seal.
What does a Louisiana notary seal look like?
Louisiana notary seals are commonly round or rectangular. They may feature the notary’s name, “Notary Public,” and other optional details like parish or commission information. If a circular design is chosen, some notaries include a version of Louisiana’s pelican state seal.
Can I use any office supply store to order a Louisiana notary stamp or seal?
It’s best to use a trusted notary seal provider rather than a generic office supply store. A professional notary seal supplier can help ensure your stamp or seal is accurate, functional, and designed to fit your preferences while reflecting Louisiana notary stamp laws.
What happens if my Louisiana notary seal includes incorrect or outdated information?
Incorrect or outdated seal information can create document issues and may put your commission compliance at risk. To avoid problems, make sure your seal matches your current notary commission details, and update it if your name, parish, commission number, or expiration date changes.
Where can I verify the current Louisiana notary seal requirements?
The best place to confirm current Louisiana notary seal requirements is the Louisiana Secretary of State’s Notary and Certifications section. This is the most reliable source for the latest rules on notary commissions, stamp laws, and acceptable seal formats.
