How to Become a Notary Public (Step-by-Step Guide)
Becoming a notary public is one of the most accessible professional credentials you can earn, and it opens the door to a flexible side income or even a full-time career. The process varies by state, but most people can go from application to active commission in two to six weeks. Here is exactly what to do, step by step.
Step 1: Check Your Eligibility
Before you start, confirm you meet your state’s basic requirements. While each state has its own rules, the common eligibility criteria across most states are:
- Age: At least 18 years old (a few states require 19 or 21)
- Residency: Must be a legal resident of the state where you are applying (some states also accept those who work in the state)
- Legal status: U.S. citizen or legal permanent resident (requirements vary by state)
- Criminal history: No felony convictions in most states (some allow exceptions after a waiting period)
- Literacy: Ability to read and write English
If you meet these criteria, you are eligible in most states. A few states have additional requirements, such as Louisiana requiring the applicant to hold a law degree for certain notarial functions, but this is the exception rather than the rule.
Step 2: Complete Required Education
Some states require you to complete an approved notary education course before applying. Others do not require any education at all. Here is how it breaks down.
States That Require Education
- California: 6-hour approved course (mandatory)
- Florida: 3-hour approved course (can be done online)
- New York: 2-hour course (available online)
- Colorado: 6-hour course
- Missouri: varies
- Montana: approved course required
- Oregon: approved course required
- Nevada: 3-hour course
States That Do NOT Require Education
Many states, including Texas, Pennsylvania, Ohio, Illinois, and Georgia, do not require education before applying. In these states, you simply submit your application and meet the other requirements.
Where to Take Courses
Approved courses are available online from organizations like the National Notary Association (NNA), Notary.net, and various state-approved providers. Online courses typically cost $50 to $150 and can be completed at your own pace. They cover notary laws, proper identification procedures, different types of notarial acts, journal requirements, and common mistakes to avoid.
Even if your state does not require a course, taking one is strongly recommended. The training helps you avoid costly errors that could lead to bond claims or legal liability.
Step 3: Pass the Notary Exam (If Required)
Several states require you to pass a written exam before receiving your commission. States that require exams include California, New York, Colorado, Connecticut, Montana, Oregon, Utah, and Hawaii.
What the Exam Covers
Notary exams test your knowledge of your state’s notary laws and proper procedures. Typical topics include types of notarial acts (acknowledgments, jurats, oaths, affirmations), proper identification procedures, journal-keeping requirements, grounds for refusing a notarization, and penalties for notary misconduct.
Exam Format
California’s exam, for example, consists of 30 multiple-choice questions with a passing score of 70 percent. It is proctored and can be taken at approved testing centers. Some states now offer online proctored exams as well.
If you study the course material, passing the exam is not difficult. Most applicants pass on their first attempt.
States That Do NOT Require an Exam
The majority of states do not require an exam, including Texas, Florida, Pennsylvania, Ohio, Illinois, Georgia, and many others. In these states, completing the application and meeting basic requirements is all that is needed.
Step 4: Purchase a Notary Bond
Most states require you to purchase a surety bond before receiving your commission. A notary bond protects the public from financial harm if you make an error or act improperly. For a detailed guide to bond requirements, see our notary bond guide.
Bond amounts vary by state. California requires $15,000, Texas requires $10,000, and Florida requires $7,500. Despite these large face values, the actual cost of purchasing a bond is modest — typically $30 to $100 for the entire commission term (usually four years).
You can purchase bonds online from surety companies, and many notary supply companies bundle bonds with stamps and journals for a package price.
Step 5: Submit Your Application
Applications are submitted to your state’s commissioning authority, usually the Secretary of State, Governor’s office, or county clerk. Most states now accept online applications.
What You Need to Submit
- Completed application form
- Bond certificate (if required)
- Proof of education completion (if required)
- Exam results (if required)
- Application fee
Application Fees by State
Application fees range from $20 to $80 depending on the state. Some examples: California charges about $40, Florida charges $25, Texas charges $21, and New York charges $60.
Processing Times
Processing times vary significantly. Some states, like Florida, process applications in a few business days. Others, like California, can take four to six weeks. Plan accordingly if you need your commission by a specific date.
Step 6: Purchase Notary Supplies
Once your commission is approved, you need a few essential supplies before you can start notarizing.
Notary stamp or seal. Every notary needs an official stamp. Most states specify the exact format, including whether it must be a rubber stamp, embosser, or either. Your stamp must include your name exactly as it appears on your commission, your commission number, commission expiration date, and the state where you are commissioned. Stamps cost $15 to $40 from notary supply companies.
Notary journal. A journal creates a permanent record of every notarization you perform. Many states require it by law, and it is recommended everywhere. Journals cost $10 to $30. For a detailed guide to journal requirements, see our notary journal guide.
Identification reference guide. A guide that helps you verify various forms of ID. Available from notary supply companies for $10 to $20.
Step 7: File Your Oath and Bond
Some states require you to file your oath of office and bond with your county clerk before you can begin notarizing. California, for example, requires this filing within 30 calendar days of receiving your commission certificate. Missing this deadline can void your commission entirely.
Check your state’s requirements carefully and complete any filings promptly.
Total Cost to Become a Notary
Here is a realistic cost breakdown for getting your notary commission.
- Education course: $0 to $150 (free if not required)
- Exam fee: $0 to $40 (free if not required)
- Notary bond: $30 to $100
- Application fee: $20 to $80
- Notary stamp: $15 to $40
- Notary journal: $10 to $30
- Total: $75 to $440 depending on your state
Many supply companies offer package deals for $100 to $200 that include the bond, stamp, journal, and other essentials. This is usually the most cost-effective approach.
What to Do After Getting Your Commission
Once you have your commission, stamp, and journal, you are ready to notarize. If you plan to build a notary business rather than just notarize occasionally, consider these next steps.
List yourself on directories. Create a profile on FindNotary.io and other notary directories so potential clients can find you when they search for notaries in your area.
Get E&O insurance. Errors and omissions insurance protects you personally from lawsuits arising from notarial errors. It costs $50 to $200 per year and is essential if you do any significant volume of notarizations.
Consider signing agent certification. If you want to maximize your income, becoming a certified loan signing agent lets you handle real estate closings at $75 to $200 per signing. See our signing agent career guide for details.
Set up remote online notarization. If your state allows RON, registering with a RON platform expands your client base beyond your immediate geographic area.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the entire process take?
From start to finish, expect two to six weeks. States with education and exam requirements take longer. States with simple applications can have you commissioned in under two weeks.
Can I be a notary in multiple states?
Yes, but you must obtain a separate commission in each state. You must meet each state’s individual requirements, which may mean separate education, exams, bonds, and fees.
Do I need to renew my commission?
Yes. Notary commissions last between four and ten years depending on the state. Renewal involves a process similar to the initial application, including a new bond, updated application, and renewal fee.
State-specific guides: See our detailed step-by-step guides for becoming a notary in California and becoming a notary in Texas. Also see notary bond requirements by state, stamp and seal requirements by state, notary fees by state, and RON laws by state.
Already a notary looking for clients? List yourself on FindNotary.io and explore the service types you can offer — from mobile notary and loan signing agent work to remote online notarization. Build your client base and start earning.