Notary Public in Montana

Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for MT

Est. Total Cost
$100
Education + exams + fees
Time to Complete
A few days to 30 days
From start to licensed

How to Become a Notary Public in Montana

To become a Notary Public in Montana, applicants must complete at least four hours of state-approved notary education and pass the Montana Notary Exam. After passing the exam, a $25,000 surety bond must be obtained, and the oath of office must be notarized. The application is then submitted online to the Montana Secretary of State, along with the $25 fee. Montana notaries can perform acts in North Dakota and Wyoming if those states recognize their authority, and applicants must be at least 18 years old.

Notary Public Requirements in Montana

DetailMontana
Licensing BodyMontana Secretary of State
State License Required Yes
EducationAll applicants (new and renewing) must complete at least 4 hours of approved notary education within 12 months of application submission. Renewing notaries may also complete 2 hours in each of the 3 years preceding renewal.
Exam Montana Notary Exam (online, 50 questions, 80% passing score, 3 attempts allowed, then 3-month wait)
Application Fee$25
RenewalEvery 4.0 years
Continuing Education4.0 hours per cycle
NotesApplicants must be at least 18 years old, a U.S. citizen or permanent legal resident, and a resident of or employed in Montana (or spouse/dependent of active duty military in MT). Must be able to read and write English. A $25,000 surety bond is required. A notary journal and seal are also required. Background checks are implied by disqualifying offenses.

Source: Montana Secretary of State

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you get certified as a notary public in Montana?
The path to notary public licensure in Montana: complete the required education (All applicants (new and renewing) must complete at least 4 hours of approved notary education within 12 months of application submission. Renewing notaries may also complete 2 hours in each of the 3 years preceding renewal.), pass the Montana Notary Exam (online, 50 questions, 80% passing score, 3 attempts allowed, then 3-month wait), and submit your application ($25 fee).
Do I need a license to work as a notary public in Montana?
Yes, Montana requires a state license to practice as a notary public. The licensing body is Montana Secretary of State. You must pass the Montana Notary Exam (online, 50 questions, 80% passing score, 3 attempts allowed, then 3-month wait).
What are the fees to become a notary public in Montana?
Costs include application fee ($25). The estimated total investment is $100, including education and training.
How many months or years does notary public certification take in Montana?
Expect to spend A few days to 30 days from start to finish in Montana — covering coursework, supervised experience, and examination.
How many CE hours do notary publics need in Montana?
Montana requires 4.0 hours of continuing education every 4.0 years to maintain your notary public license.

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