How to Become a Notary Public: State-by-State Requirements
Becoming a notary public is one of the most accessible professional credentials you can earn. The process varies by state, but most applicants can complete it within a few weeks. Whether you want to add notary services to your current job or start a mobile notary business, here is what you need to know.
General Eligibility Requirements
While each state sets its own rules, most states share similar baseline requirements. You must be at least 18 years old, be a legal resident of the state where you are applying, have no felony convictions (some states allow exceptions with sufficient time elapsed), and be able to read and write English. Some states require you to be a U.S. citizen, while others accept legal permanent residents.
Step 1: Complete Required Education
Not all states require education before applying, but many do. California requires a six-hour approved course, while New York mandates a two-hour course. States like Florida and Texas have their own specific hour requirements. Some states, including Pennsylvania, have no education requirement at all.
Online courses are widely available and typically cost between $50 and $150. They cover notary laws, proper identification procedures, journal-keeping requirements, and common mistakes to avoid. Even if your state does not require a course, taking one is strongly recommended to avoid costly errors.
Step 2: Pass the Notary Exam
Several states require you to pass an exam before receiving your commission. California, New York, Colorado, Montana, Oregon, and Utah all require testing. The exam typically covers state notary laws, proper notarization procedures, and ethical responsibilities.
The California notary exam, for example, consists of 30 questions and requires a score of 70 percent or higher. The exam is proctored and can be taken in person at approved testing centers. Some states now offer online proctored exams as well.
States that do not require an exam include Florida, Texas, Pennsylvania, Ohio, and many others. In these states, completing the application and meeting basic requirements is sufficient.
Step 3: Get Your Notary Bond
Most states require notaries to purchase a surety bond before receiving their commission. The bond protects the public from financial harm if the notary makes errors or acts improperly. Bond amounts vary by state — California requires a $15,000 bond, while Florida requires $7,500 and Texas requires $10,000.
Despite the large face values, notary bonds are inexpensive to purchase. A $15,000 bond typically costs between $40 and $100 for a four-year term. Bond companies assess the cost based on your credit history and the bond amount. You can purchase bonds online from surety companies, and many notary supply companies bundle bonds with stamps and journals.
Step 4: Submit Your Application
Applications are submitted to your state’s commissioning authority, usually the Secretary of State or a county clerk’s office. Most states now accept online applications. You will need to provide personal information, your bond details, proof of education (if required), and exam results (if applicable). Application fees range from $20 to $80 depending on the state.
Processing times vary. Some states, like Florida, can process applications in a few business days. Others, like California, may take four to six weeks.
Step 5: Purchase Your Notary Supplies
Once your commission is approved, you will need a notary stamp or seal. Many states specify the exact format — whether it must be a rubber stamp, an embosser, or either. Your stamp must include your name, commission number, commission expiration date, and the state where you are commissioned.
A notary journal is required in many states and recommended everywhere. The journal creates a permanent record of every notarization you perform, including the date, type of document, signer’s identification, and the method of identification used.
Step 6: File Your Oath and Bond
Some states require you to file your oath of office and bond with your county clerk’s office before you can begin notarizing. California, for example, requires this filing within 30 days of receiving your commission certificate. Failing to file on time can void your commission.
Commission Terms and Renewal
Notary commissions last between four and ten years depending on the state. California commissions last four years, New York commissions last four years, and Florida commissions last four years. When your term is about to expire, you will need to go through the renewal process, which in most states is similar to the initial application.
Building a Notary Business
Many notaries work as independent contractors, offering mobile notary services. Mobile notaries travel to clients and typically charge a per-signing fee plus travel expenses. Loan signing agents, who specialize in real estate closings, can earn $75 to $200 per signing. Building relationships with title companies, real estate agents, and attorneys is key to building a steady client base.
Listing yourself on directories like FindNotary.io helps potential clients find you when they search for notaries in their area.
State-specific guides: For detailed requirements, costs, and timelines, see our guides for California and Texas. Also check notary bond requirements by state, stamp and seal requirements, journal requirements, and notary fees by state.
Already a notary looking for clients? See the types of services you can offer — from mobile notary and loan signing agent work to remote online notarization — and list yourself on FindNotary.io to start getting found.