As a Notary in New Mexico, what color of ink is required for notarization? Blue ink or black? — Z.C., New Mexico
New Mexico law does not specify the color of ink to be used by the Notary Public when completing a certificate for a notarial act. However, they do state that permanent ink should be used. When notarizing paper documents, the stamp must be applied in permanent ink and be capable of being photocopied (NMAC 12.9.3.12.A[1]). Best practice is to use blue or black ink.
Some other states have requirements for the color of ink Notaries should use:
Florida requires Notaries officiating weddings to use black ink when completing required information on marriage documents.
New York Notaries must “print, typewrite, or stamp or affix by electronic means where performing an electronic notarial act in conformity with Executive Law 135-c, beneath the Notary’s signature in black ink” the following (EL 137):
- The New York Notary’s name;
- “Notary Public State of New York” or, if applicable and preferred, “Attorney and Counselor at Law State of New York”;
- Name of county where the New York Notary originally qualified for commission;
- The New York Notary’s commission expiration date;
- Wherever required, name of county in which the New York Notary’s certificate of official character is filed, using the words, “Certificate filed … County.”
The seal of a Utah Notary must use purple ink.
The requirement for Illinois Notaries to use black ink was repealed in 2013.
For questions about other states not mentioned above, please contact the Notary Hotline for assistance.
Hotline answers are based on the laws in the state where the question originated and may not reflect the laws of other states. If in doubt, always refer to your own state statutes. – The Editors
Confronted with a tricky notarization? Unsure how to proceed? NNA members have unlimited access to our expertly trained NNA Hotline consultants to help you with all of your notarial questions. Call 1-888-876-0827, Monday through Friday, 6 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. PST; Saturday, 5 a.m. to 5 p.m. PST.