Seal, Stamp & Signature
Ohio requires a notary stamp/seal with prescribed elements on notarial certificates.
Required stamp elements
An Ohio notary must use an official stamp containing the notary's name as commissioned, the words 'Notary Public' and 'State of Ohio,' and the notary's commission expiration date (Ohio commissions issued under the Modernization Act are statewide). The stamp must be photographically reproducible and legible on the document.
Care and security of the seal
The notary must keep the stamp secure and use it only for authorized acts. If the stamp is lost or stolen, the notary should notify the Secretary of State. On resignation or expiration, the notary should destroy or safeguard the stamp so it cannot be misused.
State-specific details
State exam facts
- State regulator
- Ohio Secretary of State (Notary Commissions)
- Prelicensing education
- 3 hours (initial education; required of non-attorneys and attorneys)
- Passing score
- 80%
Does Ohio require a notary exam?
Yes for non-attorneys. Under the 2019 Notary Public Modernization Act, non-attorney applicants must complete a 3-hour education course and pass a proctored exam through a Secretary-of-State-authorized provider. Attorneys are exempt from the exam but must still take the education.
What score do I need to pass the Ohio notary exam?
The authorized testing providers require a score of at least 80% to pass the Ohio notary exam.
How long is an Ohio notary commission?
A non-attorney Ohio notary commission runs for 5 years.
Sources: https://www.ohiosos.gov/notary/, https://codes.ohio.gov/ohio-administrative-code/rule-111:6-1-03