How to Become a Notary Public in Montana

This guide outlines the steps, costs, processing timelines, and legal requirements to become a commissioned Notary Public in Montana.

Steps to Becoming a Notary Public in Montana

Meet eligibility requirements
Complete at least 4 hours of approved notary education
Pass the state-administered notary examination
Obtain a $25,000 surety bond and sign it
Take the oath and attach it to your bond
Submit the online application, bond, exam certificate, and $25 filing fee
Receive your Commission Certificate
Purchase your official seal/stamp and journal
Renew every four years with required continuing education

Become a Montana Loan Signing Agent

Get started as a loan signing agent today!

Montana Notary Public Process

Montana requires all new and renewing notaries to complete education and pass an exam. All applications must be submitted online. Once commissioned, notaries are authorized to perform notarial acts statewide for a term of four years.

Cost to Become a Notary in Montana

The total cost varies based on required and optional supplies. Below is a cost breakdown:

Item	Cost	Details
Application Fee	$25	Paid during online submission
Notary Education & Exam	Varies by provider	4 hours of training required
Surety Bond ($25,000)	$35 – $70	Required for commissioning
Notary Seal	$15 – $40	Must follow Montana specs
Notary Journal	$10 – $50	Required for every act performed
Total Estimated Cost	$85 – $185+	Varies by provider and materials

Montana Commission Processing Time

Once your application and documents are submitted, commissions are generally processed within 10–14 business days.

Montana Notary Requirements

To qualify as a Notary Public in Montana, applicants must:

Be at least 18 years old
Be a U.S. citizen or permanent legal resident
Be a Montana resident or employed in Montana
Be able to read and write English
Not have had a notary commission revoked in the past 10 years
Not have been convicted of a crime involving fraud, dishonesty, or deceit

Notary Education and Exam

All applicants must:

Complete 4 hours of notary education from a state-approved provider
Pass the Montana notary exam with a minimum score of 80%
Submit the exam certificate with the application

Surety Bond and Oath of Office

Purchase a $25,000 surety bond
Complete the oath of office
Sign both the bond and oath before submitting them with your application

Montana Notary Supplies

To perform notarizations in Montana, Notaries need:

Notary Seal or Stamp – A seal must be either rectangular or circular with all required elements.
Notary Journal – Journal entries are required for every notarial act and must be kept for at least 10 years

Renewing a Montana Notary Commission

Renewal is required every four years
Education and exam must be repeated for each renewal
Submit a new application and bond
Purchase a new seal if commission number or expiration date changes

Conclusion

Becoming a Notary Public in Montana is a straightforward process that requires education, examination, and bonding. With a four-year commission, you can serve your community confidently and legally perform essential notarial services across the state. Let me know when you’re ready for the next state.