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The purpose of this section is to explain the requirements of the notary public seal.

Upon completion of this section, you will be able to describe:

(1)  Whether or not the seal is required
(2)  Where the seal is to be kept
(3)  Should a notary public surrender his/her seal upon termination of employment
(4)  The required specifications of the seal
(5)  Legibility of the seal 
(6)  Possible rejection of documents
(7)  The only condition where you do not have to use your notary seal
(8)  When Seal can be used
(9)  Authorized Seal Manufacturers
(10) Required paperwork needed to purchase seal

Requirements of the Seal

The California Notary Public is required to both have and use the seal.  (KS35-GC8207)

Where Should the Seal/Stamp be Kept

The seal and stamp are both the exclusive property of the notary public and must be kept in a locked and secured area under the direct and exclusive control of the notary public.  In other words, don’t leave your seal lying on your desk.  Instead, lock it in your purse, glove box, truck, desk drawer or somewhere where it is secure like a small lock box.  (KS7-GC8207)

The seal must also be kept under the direct and exclusive control of the notary public. (KS36-GC82017)

Upon Termination of Employment

Do not surrender your seal to your employer regardless as to whether (s)he paid for the seal.  The seal belongs to you, the notary, and is not to be surrendered to an employer.  (KS37-GC8207)

Legal Requirements of the Seal   (KS44-GC8207)

1.  The rubber stamp has become very popular because once you press the stamp on the document, it is easy to make a copy.  This is referred to as being “photographically reproducible”.

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