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Becoming a Notary Public

The Application Process for Public Notaries

Jan 27, 2009 Jenny Evans

What is a notary public and how do you become one? Notaries are authorized by the state to notarize documents, and each state has its own requirements for commission.

A notary public, or public notary, is a person authorized by the Secretary of State to verify identities and witness the signing of documents. A document is "notarized" with a special embossed notary seal to affirm that the signers are indeed who they say they are. Notary publics can also administer oaths and collect sworn affidavits.

General Requirements

Any private citizen can become a notary public. He or she does not have to have special legal training. Specific requirements to become a notary vary from state to state, but in general you must be at least 18 years of age and either live or be employed in the state where you are seeking commission.

Application and Fees

Prospective notary publics must obtain an application from their state government and fill it out. Most applications include a picture, letters of reference, and the mark of a person’s official notary seal. Notary supplies are available from various providers and must be bought at the individual’s expense. The state does not provide people with notary stamps or seals.

Training Seminars

Notaries are expected to be familiar with the codes and ordinances applicable to notarizing documents and performing notary duties. Most people go through some type of training before practicing as a notary. Many states require a two- to six-hour seminar, either online or in-person, before a notary public exam can be taken. The seminars are based on the information found in the Notary Public Handbook, which is produced and distributed by the state.

Notary Exam

Most states also require applicants to take and pass a proctored exam before practicing as a public notary. In some instances, the exam may be an oral test only. The test questions are on legal codes and regulations affecting notaries and can be studied in the Notary Public Handbook.

Securing a Bond

Some states ask that individuals secure a bond prior to applying for a position as a public notary. A bond is sort of like malpractice insurance for notaries, except that it protects a person who has incurred damages as a result of a notary misusing his commission. It does not protect the notary public himself. Securing a bond, however, is not a requirement in the majority of states.

State requirements for becoming a notary public vary, so it’s important to check what is necessary to become a notary in your state. It is legally permissible to charge for notary services, although states set a maximum dollar amount and many notaries perform services for free. Public notaries are usually found in financial or government institutions like libraries, law firms, and banks. However, any private citizen can become a notary public.

The copyright of the article Becoming a Notary Public in Career Advice is owned by Jenny Evans. Permission to republish Becoming a Notary Public in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.