IN Notary Notary Seal and Certificate Requirements

Question 1

What information must appear on an Indiana notary's official seal?

Accepted Answer

The notary's name, the words 'Notary Public', 'State of Indiana', and the commission expiration date

Answer

Indiana requires the seal to show the notary's name, 'Notary Public', 'State of Indiana', and the commission expiration date.

Question 2

An Indiana notary uses an embossing seal (raised impression) on a document. Is this acceptable under Indiana law?

Accepted Answer

Yes, an embossing seal may be used, but if used alone it should be accompanied by ink to ensure legibility on copies

Answer

An embossing seal is permissible in Indiana, but best practice is to also apply an ink stamp or color the embossment to ensure it is visible on photocopies.

Question 3

What must an Indiana notary do with their seal if their commission is revoked or expires without renewal?

Accepted Answer

Destroy or disable the seal to prevent unauthorized use

Answer

When an Indiana notary's commission ends, they should destroy or render the seal unusable to prevent any unauthorized use.

Question 4

If an Indiana notary's seal is lost or stolen, what must they do?

Accepted Answer

Immediately obtain a replacement seal and notify the Secretary of State about the loss

Answer

A lost or stolen seal must be reported to the Secretary of State and a replacement seal obtained before notarial acts can continue.

Question 5

May an Indiana notary use their seal for personal or decorative purposes unrelated to their official duties?

Accepted Answer

No, the official seal must only be used for legitimate notarial acts

Answer

An Indiana notary's official seal is an instrument of official authority and must only be used for legitimate notarial acts — never for personal or decorative purposes.

IN Notary - Indiana Notary Exam Practice Test

IN Notary - Indiana Notary Exam Practice Test

IN Notary Notary Seal and Certificate Requirements