How to Become a Notary: Requirements by State

Step-by-step guide to becoming a notary public. Learn the application requirements, fees, exam requirements, and commission terms for all 50 states.

General Requirements to Become a Notary

While each state has its own specific requirements, most states require notary applicants to:

• Be at least 18 years old
• Be a legal resident of the state (or have a business in the state)
• Not have any felony convictions (varies by state)
• Complete an application with the Secretary of State
• Pay an application fee (typically $10-$100)
• Take an oath of office
• In many states: pass a written exam
• Purchase a notary bond (typically $500-$15,000)
• Purchase a notary seal/stamp

How to Become a Notary: Step by Step

1. Check your state's requirements: Visit your Secretary of State's website for current requirements.
2. Complete required education: Some states (California, Oregon, Pennsylvania, etc.) require a notary education course before applying.
3. Pass the exam: States like California and New York require a written exam. Others do not.
4. Submit your application: Apply through your state's Secretary of State office, either online or by mail.
5. Pass a background check: Required in most states. May take 2-8 weeks.
6. Purchase your notary bond: Required in most states to protect the public. Typically $10-$50/year for a $10,000-$15,000 bond.
7. Take the oath of office: Must be done in person at a county clerk's office in many states.
8. Purchase your supplies: Notary seal/stamp and notary journal. Required in most states.

Requirements by State (Summary)

State	Exam Required	Education Required	Bond Required	Commission Term
California	Yes	Yes (3 hrs)	Yes ($15K)	4 years
Florida	No	Yes (3 hrs)	Yes ($7.5K)	4 years
Texas	No	No	Yes ($10K)	4 years
New York	Yes	No	No	4 years
Illinois	No	No	No	4 years
Pennsylvania	Yes	Yes (3 hrs)	Yes ($10K)	4 years
Ohio	No	No	No	5 years
Michigan	No	No	No	6 years
Georgia	No	No	No	4 years
Arizona	No	No	Yes ($5K)	4 years

How Much Does It Cost to Become a Notary?

Total startup costs vary by state but typically include:

• Application fee: $10-$100
• Education course (if required): $20-$100
• Exam fee (if required): $20-$40
• Notary bond: $10-$50/year
• Notary seal/stamp: $15-$40
• Notary journal: $10-$25
• Total: approximately $50-$300

How to Earn More as a Notary

Once commissioned, many notaries earn additional income through:

• Notary Signing Agent certification: Handle real estate loan closings for $75-$200 per appointment
• Mobile notary services: Travel to clients for a premium fee
• Online platforms: List your services on NotarySlot to get booked by clients searching for notaries in your area