To become a notary public, the general process involves several key steps, although specific requirements vary by state or country:
General Steps to Become a Notary Public in the U.S.
- Meet Eligibility Requirements
- Be at least 18 years old.
- Be a legal resident of the state where you apply.
- Have no disqualifying criminal record.
- Be able to read and write English (required in many states)
- Complete Application
- Fill out the state's notary application form.
- Pay the application and filing fees.
- Some states require fingerprinting and background checks
- Education and Exam
- Many states require completion of a state-approved notary education course.
- Some states require passing a notary exam after the course.
- Education courses typically last 3 to 6 hours; exams last about an hour
- Obtain a Surety Bond
- Required in many states to protect the public from errors or misconduct.
- Bond amounts vary by state
- Receive Commission and Supplies
- After approval, receive your official commission certificate.
- Purchase notary supplies such as a notary stamp/seal and a notary journal
- File Your Commission
- File your oath of office, bond, and commission with the appropriate county or state office as required
Additional Notes for Other Jurisdictions (e.g., England and Wales)
- Becoming a notary involves a more extensive legal qualification process, including academic and professional training.
- Candidates must be at least 21 years old and typically be solicitors, barristers, or legal executives.
- The process includes academic study of prescribed legal subjects, a two-year professional notarial practice course, practical office training, and passing background checks
Summary Table (U.S. Typical Process)
Step| Description
---|---
Eligibility| 18+, legal resident, no serious criminal record
Application| Submit form and fee, background check/fingerprints
Education & Exam| Complete course and pass exam (if required)
Surety Bond| Purchase bond as required by state
Commission & Supplies| Receive commission, buy stamp and journal
File Commission| File oath and bond with state/county office
This process can take from a few weeks to a couple of months depending on state processing times
