How to Get a Montana Notary Public Commission 

In Montana, you must complete the licensing process before becoming a notary public according to state law. Notary publics are appointed by the Secretary of State’s office and act as impartial witnesses to attest authenticity in the signing of legal documents.

Learn how to get your Montana notary license with this comprehensive guide. 

How Do I Become a Notary Public in Montana?

To become a notary public in Montana, follow these five steps:

Step 1: Verify your eligibility

To be eligible for a notary public license in Montana, you must meet the following criteria:

• Be at least 18 years old
• Be able to read and write English
• Be a citizen or legal permanent resident of the United States
• Be a resident of Montana 
• Be the spouse or legal dependent of active duty military personnel in Montana
• Maintain a registered place of business or be regularly employed in Montana

Step 2: Complete the required training and exam

Complete four hours of approved notary coursework within 12 months of submitting your application. Then, take the Montana Notary Exam and submit your completion certificates with your application. You must pass with an 80% score within three attempts, otherwise you will need to wait three months before trying again. 

Step 3: Purchase a notary bond

Montana requires a $25,000 surety bond to become a notary. This bond ensures that you will perform your notarial duties correctly and protects clients from financial harm if you fail to do so. 

You can buy your Montana notary bond instantly online starting at just $40. Bundling errors and omissions (E&O) insurance with your bond is optional, but recommended. E&O protects you from legal damages caused by common notarization mistakes, such as missing seals, dates, or signatures. 

Step 4: Submit your application

After gathering your supporting documents, apply through the Montana Notary Public Online Application system and pay the $25 application fee. 

Once approved by the Secretary of State, you will receive your notary commission certificate, which you can download and save. Montana notaries can only perform duties within state boundaries, and out-of-state notaries cannot operate in Montana. 

Step 5: Purchase a notary seal 

As a Montana notary, you are required to purchase a seal/stamp. The seal must be rectangular and include your name, title, county of residence, and commission expiration date, and it must be in blue or black ink.

How to Renew Your Montana Notary Public License

Montana notary public bonds must be renewed every four years when the term expires. To renew, you will need to pay a new premium, and a new surety bond form will be issued for the next term. Additionally, notaries are required to take the exam and complete continuing education each time they renew their commission.

How Long Does it Take to Get a Montana Notary License?

Becoming a Montana notary typically takes several weeks, including the application process, exam results, and bond approval. Once approved, you can download your notary commission certificate online.

How Much Does It Cost to Get a Notary Public License?

The cost of becoming a Montana notary public typically ranges from $150 to $200 in total. You can expect the following expenses:

• Application fee: Included in the online process
• Notary bond: $40–$115 for the 4-year term*
• Notary stamp: Typically $10–$50, depending on the supplier and type of stamp (e.g., traditional rubber stamp or embosser).

*This range reflects SuretyBonds.com notary bond rates plus any optional errors and omissions coverage.

How to Become an IPEN, RON or Remote Notary in Montana

Once you are licensed, you can become an e-notary by completing the following steps:

1. Ensure you are a Montana notary in good standing.
2. Complete eNotary training and pass the required exam.
3. Register with an approved RON solution provider.
4. Submit a Notary Public Information Update form and proof of completion from the course and exam. 

Do I Need to Purchase Any Supplies as a Notary Public in Montana?

A Montana notary stamp is required on all notarized documents. Without it, documents may be rejected or not recorded by county clerks. Here’s what to prepare:

Notary Seal: A pre-inked or self-inking stamp including the following details:

• Your commissioned name
• Your county of commission
• "Notary Public" and "Montana"

Notary Journal: While not legally required, maintaining a notary journal is recommended for record-keeping.

Additional Tips for Out-of-State Documents

For documents intended for use outside Montana, include:

• Your name as commissioned
• County of commission
• Commission expiration date
• "Acting in the County of [insert county]"

More Resources 

• Notary Commission Application Instructions for Montana
• Montana Secretary of State: New and Renewal Notary Bonds
• Montana Secretary of State: Applying for a Commission (New and Renewal)