Key Takeaways
- Utah requires a rectangular ink stamp no larger than 1 inch by 2.5 inches
- The stamp MUST use purple ink for photographically reproducible impressions
- Required stamp elements: notary name, "Notary Public," "State of Utah," commission expiration date, commission number, and the great seal of Utah
- An embossing seal may be used ONLY in conjunction with the ink stamp, never alone
- The stamp must be kept secure and not used after commission expires
Seal and Stamp Requirements
Utah has specific requirements for the notary seal/stamp. Understanding these requirements ensures your notarizations are valid and properly executed.
Official Seal Requirements
Every Utah notary must obtain an official seal (stamp) that meets specific requirements.
Stamp Specifications
| Element | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Shape | Rectangular |
| Maximum size | 1 inch by 2.5 inches |
| Ink color | Purple (required) |
| Impression | Sharp, legible, photographically reproducible |
Why Purple Ink? Utah requires purple ink to help distinguish original documents from photocopies. Purple ink photographs distinctly, making it easier to identify originals.
Required Stamp Elements
The seal must contain all of the following:
| Element | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Name | Notary's name exactly as on commission |
| Title | "Notary Public" |
| State | "State of Utah" |
| Commission expiration | "My commission expires on [date]" |
| Commission number | Exactly as on commission |
| State emblem | Facsimile of the great seal of the State of Utah |
Sample Stamp Layout
┌─────────────────────────────────────────────┐
│ │
│ [Great Seal JOHN DOE │
│ of Utah] NOTARY PUBLIC │
│ STATE OF UTAH │
│ Commission #12345678 │
│ My Commission Expires: │
│ January 1, 2028 │
│ │
└─────────────────────────────────────────────┘
Embossing Seals
| Rule | Details |
|---|---|
| Allowed | Yes, but only WITH the ink stamp |
| Alone | May NOT be used alone |
| Ink on embossment | Must NOT be inked |
| Purpose | Additional security feature |
Important: An embossing seal cannot be used instead of the ink stamp because embossed impressions do not photocopy well. The purple ink stamp is always required.
Obtaining Your Stamp
To order your notary stamp, you typically must provide to the vendor:
- Copy of your commission certificate
- Notarized declaration or order form
- Payment
Approximate Costs
| Item | Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Self-inking stamp | $20-$30 |
| Embossing seal (optional) | $20-$40 |
Proper Seal Placement
When notarizing, affix your seal:
- Near your official signature on the notarial certificate
- In a clear space that doesn't obscure document text
- Making sure the impression is complete and legible
Seal Security
Protect your notary seal by:
- Storing it in a secure location
- Never allowing others to use it
- Keeping it in your control at all times
- Destroying it when your commission expires or is revoked
- Never using it after your commission expires
What Happens If Your Seal Is Lost or Stolen
If your seal is lost or stolen:
- Report immediately to the Lieutenant Governor's Office
- Order a new seal with the same information
- Document the loss in your journal
- Consider notifying any parties you recently notarized for
Electronic Seals (for Remote Notarization)
Remote Online Notaries must also have an electronic seal:
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Format | Digital/electronic |
| Timestamp | Must include digital timestamp |
| Color | Typically rendered in black (not purple) |
| Provider | Obtained through approved RON platform |
On the Exam
- Shape and size: Rectangular, no larger than 1" x 2.5"
- Ink color: Purple (mandatory)
- Required elements: Name, "Notary Public," "State of Utah," commission number, expiration date, great seal
- Embosser: Only with ink stamp, never alone
- Security: Keep secure, destroy after commission expires
What color ink is required for Utah notary stamps?
Can a Utah notary use only an embossing seal (without an ink stamp) on a document?
Which of the following is NOT a required element on a Utah notary stamp?