I have a Notary stamp that has my name, title of “Notary Public,” county, and state (North Carolina) on it. It does not have my Notary expiration date on it. When I renew my Notary commission in 2027, because it doesn’t have a date on it, can I continue to use the stamp when notarizing? — M.P., North Carolina
Yes; in North Carolina, it’s only optional for your Notary seal to include your commission expiration date. When you renew your commission in 2027, you may continue using the same stamp as long as all the required elements, your name, the title “Notary Public,” your county of commission, and the state are present and is capable of making a legible impression. If not, it should be replaced.
Please be aware that other states have different requirements for the information displayed on an official Notary seal or stamp. If you are a Notary in another state looking for information on seal requirements, you can find the information for your state at our online U.S. Notary Reference page.
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
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