How to become a notary in Montana
Notaries in Montana are commissioned by the Montana Secretary of State, Notary and Certification Services. Here is who can apply, what it takes and what it costs, from the state's own rules, checked November 4, 2026.
The state's website could not be fully reached when we checked, so some details come from Montana law and official forms. Confirm them on the official page before you apply.
Who can become a notary in Montana?
- At least 18 years old
- U.S. citizen or permanent legal resident
- Montana resident, or have a place of employment or practice in Montana
- Able to read and write English
- Not disqualified under MCA 1-5-621
What are the Montana notary requirements?
| Commissioned by | Montana Secretary of State, Notary and Certification Services |
|---|---|
| Training required | Yes. Required education per the SOS (ARM 44.15.101-103); SOS pages describe at least 4 hours of approved training within 12 months before applying (that page could not be loaded directly). |
| Exam required | Yes. Must pass the state exam (MCA 1-5-620); SOS pages describe 50 questions, 60 minutes, 80% to pass, taken within six months before applying. |
| Surety bond | $25,000 |
| Application fee | $25 |
| Commission term | 4 years |
| Remote online notarization | Yes: remote and remote online notarizations are allowed if the notary is authorized by the Secretary of State, is physically in Montana, uses approved technology and records the session. |
Steps to become a notary in Montana
- Complete approved notary training
- Pass the Montana notary exam
- Buy a $25,000 surety bond (name must match the application)
- Create an account and file the application online through the Secretary of State portal with training and exam certificates
- Execute the oath and pay the $25 fee
- Track approval in your Notary Work Queue
How do you find a notary in Montana?
- Banks, credit unions, shipping stores and law offices often have a notary on staff. Call ahead, because not every branch does.
- A mobile notary travels to you for a travel fee on top of the state's notarization fee.
- Bring a current government photo ID and the unsigned document. Don't sign it until the notary watches you.
- A notary checks your identity and witnesses your signature. They can't give legal advice or tell you what a document means unless they are also a lawyer.
- Check that a notary is commissioned on the official Montana notary lookup.