Notary Commission and Qualifications Flashcards

A Montana notary decides to stop serving before her term ends. What should she do?

Answer: Resign by notifying the Secretary of State and dispose of her stamp properly

A resigning notary must notify the Secretary of State and destroy or disable the official stamp.

Under Montana law, a notary public is best described as:

Answer: A public officer commissioned by the state to serve as an impartial witness

A notary is a commissioned public officer whose core duty is impartial witnessing, not a state employee or attorney.

Which change would a Montana notary NOT need to report to the Secretary of State?

Answer: A change in favorite bank branch used for personal banking

Only changes to information on file with the Secretary of State, such as name and address, must be reported.

After passing the exam and filing her bond, when may a new Montana notary begin performing notarial acts?

Answer: Once the Secretary of State issues the commission and she has her official stamp

Notarial authority begins only when the commission is issued and the notary is properly equipped.

A notary commissioned in Idaho who works full-time in Missoula wants a Montana commission. Is she eligible?

Answer: Yes, residents of bordering states employed in Montana may apply

Montana allows residents of bordering states who work in Montana to be commissioned, and holding another state's commission is not disqualifying.

If a Montana notary's surety bond is cancelled mid-term, the notary:

Answer: Must stop notarizing until a replacement bond is filed

A valid bond must be in effect at all times; without one, the notary's authority is suspended.

Which of the following best describes the education requirement tied to qualifying as a Montana notary?

Answer: Completing approved notary training or preparation before passing the state exam

Applicants prepare through approved notary education and must pass the Montana notary exam; no college or law degree is required.