May I sign my signature as a notary public and affix my notary seal in blue ink, or some other color, so that I can easily identify an original document?
With the improved quality of photocopies and the mandatory use of the rubber stamp notary seal, notaries often express concern over difficulty in differentiating between the original and a photocopy of the same notarization. Section 117.05(3)(a), Florida Statutes, provides that the official notary seal the rubber stamp type seal must be affixed with “photographically reproducible black ink.” However, the notary law does not specify a color of ink to be used when signing a notarial certificate. Therefore, if you prefer, you may use a color of ink, other than black, in signing your name to distinguish between an original and a photocopy of your notarial certificate. Bear in mind, though, that copying machines now reproduce in color.
