How to Become a Notary Public: General Steps in Any State

Check eligibility

States usually require applicants to be at least eighteen, to live or work in the state, to read and write English, and to be free of certain criminal convictions. Some states ask for a clean record on fraud or dishonesty. Some require citizenship or lawful residence.

Look up the commissioning office for your state and read the current handbook before you pay for anything.

Some states let you hold a commission if you work in the state but live next door, while others require residency. Read this rule carefully if you commute across a state line.

Training and exams

Some states require a short course, an exam or both. Others require neither. Even where training is optional, it is worth doing, because the mistakes new notaries make are predictable and avoidable. Good courses cover identification, certificates, journals and refusals.

Keep your handbook. You will use it often during your first year.

Apply and pay fees

Applications are usually filed with a state office, often online. You will provide your name, address, background questions and references or endorsements if required. Fees are set by the state, so check the current amount. In New Jersey, notaries are commissioned by the State Treasurer.

Answer every question honestly. An error or omission can lead to denial.

Keep a copy of your application and every confirmation page. If the office has a question months later, you will be glad you saved them.

Bond, insurance and oath

Some states require a surety bond. Others require none. A bond protects the public, not you. Errors and omissions insurance, which is optional in most places, protects you if a claim is made. Compare what each covers before buying.

After approval, you generally take an oath of office and file it as the state directs. Your commission is not active until that step is done.

Buy supplies

You will need an official stamp that meets your state's format, a bound journal if one is required or recommended, and a good pen. Order from a vendor who follows your state's rules. Do not buy supplies before you know the format.

Practice stamping on scrap paper and filling in the journal with sample entries.

Join a local or state notary association if one exists. The members often share tips on forms, pricing and dealing with unusual requests.

Start with good habits

Read your handbook again after the oath. Ask an experienced notary to answer questions. Begin with simple signings, such as acknowledgments for friends' routine papers, but avoid conflicts and family documents.

Never stamp a document without the signer present. A strict habit now prevents trouble later.

Tell friends and coworkers what you can and cannot do. Explaining early that you cannot give legal advice avoids awkward moments later.

Common questions

This guide is general information, not legal advice. Fees and procedures change; check with the office involved or an attorney for your situation.