How to become a notary in Montana: the official requirements
Who can apply, the training, bond and term, and the steps, from the Montana Secretary of State's own published requirements.
To become a notary public in Montana: Who can apply: At least 18; a U.S. citizen or permanent legal resident; a Montana resident (or the spouse or dependent of military personnel on active duty in Montana), or with a registered Montana place of business, regular employment in Montana, or a current Montana professional license; able to read and write English. Training: At least 4 hours of approved training, completed within 12 months before you apply. Exam: Pass the Montana notary exam (80% passes) no more than six months before you apply; after three failed attempts you wait three months. Bond: A $25,000 notary surety bond. Commission term: Four years. Commissions are issued by the Montana Secretary of State.
Notary requirements in Montana
| Requirement | Montana |
|---|---|
| Who can apply | At least 18; a U.S. citizen or permanent legal resident; a Montana resident (or the spouse or dependent of military personnel on active duty in Montana), or with a registered Montana place of business, regular employment in Montana, or a current Montana professional license; able to read and write English. |
| Training | At least 4 hours of approved training, completed within 12 months before you apply. |
| Exam | Pass the Montana notary exam (80% passes) no more than six months before you apply; after three failed attempts you wait three months. |
| Bond | A $25,000 notary surety bond. |
| Commission term | Four years. |
| State fee | A $25 non-refundable application fee. |
| Background check | Not stated in the official source we read. Check with the Montana Secretary of State. |
| Oath and filing | Sign the standardized bond form a second time in front of another notary when you swear to the Statement of Qualifications and take the oath of office. |
Where the official source we read does not state something, the table says so rather than guessing.
How to apply in Montana
- Complete at least 4 hours of approved training.
- Take and pass the Montana notary exam.
- Obtain a $25,000 notary surety bond on the standardized form, which includes the oath of office.
- Complete the online application, uploading your training and exam certificates and bond, and pay the $25 fee.
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Questions people ask
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How this page is built
Every requirement on this page comes from the Montana Secretary of State's own published material, read on the dates shown. Requirements and fees change; the authority's current instructions govern.
- Not legal advice.
- Fees charged by bonding agencies, course providers and fingerprint vendors are not included.
- Montana Secretary of State, Applying for a Commission (New and Renewal), official source, read Nov 5, 2026.