How Do You Become a Notary Public?

There are more than 4 million Notaries in the United States. Becoming a Notary Public offers flexibility, the opportunity for self-employment, and good compensation. How do you  become a Notary Public? The process is relatively simple.

Steps to Become a Notary Public

Check that you meet basic state requirements.
Most states require Notaries to be 18 or older, proficient in oral and written English, and a permanent resident or citizen of the United States. Check with your state to see if you meet its basic eligibility requirements to become a Notary.

Complete an application.
Once you have confirmed that you meet your state’s requirements, the next step is to complete an application. You can visit your state’s website and download the application form. You are required to fill in and sign the form before submitting it to your government office.

Pay the filing fee.
The third step is to pay the filing fee required to process your application form. This fee varies from state to state.

Complete training.
Some states require state-approved training in order to become a Notary. Even in your state doesn’t require training, it can be a great way to educate yourself on the duties and responsibilities of a Notary.

Pass your state exam.
A small number of U.S. states require applicants to pass a state-administered exam before practicing as a Notary Public. The exam fee may be charged separately or included in your application fee.

Complete a background check.
Applicants are required to disclose any convictions or arrests they have faced in their application. Only some states require a background check.

Receive your commission certificate.
Once you have passed a background check (if required) and your application is approved, you will receive your commission certificate via mail. If your application is rejected, you will get a list outlining the reasons and you will have another chance to reapply.

Buy a surety bond.
Most states require Notaries to purchase a surety bond, which protects clients from the mistakes you may make. There is a small premium you will pay for your surety bond. The value of the bond required varies by state.

Purchase your Notary supplies.
To practice as a Notary Public, you will need a Notary Public seal and Notary journal. The Notary seal will include details such as your name, the title “Notary Public,” the county you live in, and the expiration date. A Notary journal is basically a notebook that serves as a paper record.

File with your Notary regulating office.
Once you have received your official stamp, you can file your commission paperwork with the Notary regulating office in your state.

The process to become a Notary Public, while simple and relatively inexpensive, does vary from state to state. Your Secretary of State is a great resource for detailed information on the requirements to become a Notary in your state.

Once you have become a commissioned Notary, consider joining our team. Coast 2 Coast Signings is a global signing service dedicated to providing the most convenient, efficient, and professional signing services. Our goal is to provide our clients with excellent customer service, a knowledgeable staff, and the ability to find experienced notaries wherever and whenever they are needed. Our team is on staff 24/7 to fulfill any of your signing needs. With a combined 50 years of experience, our mission is to help fulfill our clients’ needs with the utmost respect and adaptability. Coast 2 Coast is the only signing company proficient in completing signings on a global scale, on any coast and in any country.