How to Become a Notary Public (Complete Step-by-Step Guide)
- 18 hours ago
- 6 min read
Becoming a notary public is one of the easiest and most affordable ways to start a business or earn extra income. Whether you're looking for a flexible side hustle, want to add a valuable service to your existing business, or plan to become a full-time mobile notary or loan signing agent, becoming a notary public can open the door to many opportunities.
Notaries play an important role in preventing fraud by verifying identities, witnessing signatures, and ensuring important legal documents are properly executed.
Although every state has its own notary laws and requirements, the overall process is very similar across the country.
In this guide, we'll explain how to become a notary public, what qualifications you'll need, how much it costs, and how to obtain a notary bond and Errors & Omissions (E&O) Insurance if required.
What Is a Notary Public?
A notary public is an individual appointed by a state government to serve as an impartial witness during the signing of important documents.
A notary's responsibilities may include:
Verifying the identity of signers
Witnessing signatures
Administering oaths and affirmations
Completing acknowledgments
Certifying copies (where permitted)
Helping prevent fraud
Notaries commonly work with documents such as:
Real estate documents
Loan paperwork
Powers of attorney
Wills and trusts
Affidavits
Business agreements
Vehicle title documents
Adoption paperwork
Who Can Become a Notary Public?
While requirements vary by state, most applicants must:
✔ Be at least 18 years old
✔ Be a legal resident of the state (or meet residency/employment requirements)
✔ Be able to read and write English
✔ Have no disqualifying criminal convictions
✔ Complete any required education or testing
✔ Submit a notary application
Some states may also require fingerprinting or a background check.
Step 1: Review Your State's Notary Requirements
Every state has different rules for becoming a notary.
Before applying, determine whether your state requires:
Notary education
A state examination
Fingerprinting
Background checks
Errors & Omissions Insurance
County filing requirements
Understanding your state's process before you begin can save time and prevent delays.
Step 2: Complete Any Required Training
Several states require applicants to complete a notary education course before applying.
Training typically covers:
State notary laws
Proper notarization procedures
Recordkeeping
Fraud prevention
Ethics
Prohibited acts
Even if training isn't required, taking a notary course can help you avoid costly mistakes.
Step 3: Pass the Notary Exam (If Required)
Some states require applicants to pass a written examination.
The exam often includes questions about:
State laws
Acceptable identification
Proper notarization procedures
Journal requirements
Common violations
Passing the exam demonstrates that you understand your state's notary laws.
Step 4: Submit Your Notary Application
Most states require applicants to submit a completed application along with any required documentation.
This may include:
Application form
Application fee
Proof of education
Exam results
Background check
Fingerprints
Bond information (if required)
Be sure to review your application carefully before submitting it.
Step 5: Obtain Your Notary Surety Bond
Many states require notaries to purchase a Notary Surety Bond before their commission can be issued.
Unlike insurance, a notary bond protects the public—not the notary.
If a notary violates state law or improperly performs a notarization, a claim may be filed against the bond. If the surety company pays a valid claim, the notary is generally responsible for reimbursing the surety.
The required bond amount varies by state.
Why Choose All American Bonds and Insurance?
If your state requires a notary bond, All American Bonds and Insurance makes the process simple and affordable.
For more than 10 years, we've helped professionals across the country obtain the bonds and insurance they need to become commissioned notaries.
We proudly offer:
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Whether you're becoming a notary for the first time or renewing your commission, our experienced team can help you obtain the right bond quickly and easily.
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Step 6: Purchase Errors & Omissions (E&O) Insurance
Although E&O Insurance is optional in many states, it is one of the best ways to protect yourself.
Unlike a surety bond, Errors & Omissions Insurance is designed to help protect the notary.
Depending on the policy, E&O Insurance may help cover claims involving:
Mistakes
Negligence
Omissions
Legal defense costs
Many experienced notaries choose to carry E&O coverage for additional peace of mind.
Step 7: Purchase Your Notary Supplies
Most notaries will need several supplies before performing their first notarization.
These may include:
Notary stamp or seal
Notary journal
Ink pad (if applicable)
Acknowledgment certificates
Jurat certificates
Many states specify exactly what information must appear on a notary seal.
Step 8: Take Your Oath of Office (If Required)
Some states require new notaries to take an oath of office before they may begin performing notarizations.
In certain states, you'll also need to file your notary bond and commission paperwork with a county clerk or another government office.
Step 9: Receive Your Notary Commission
After your application is approved and all state requirements have been met, you'll receive your official notary commission.
Once commissioned, you may begin performing notarial acts in accordance with your state's laws.
Always keep track of your commission expiration date and renew it before it expires.
How Much Does It Cost to Become a Notary?
The total cost varies depending on your state.
Expenses may include:
Application fees
Education courses
Exam fees
Background checks
Fingerprinting
Notary seal
Journal
Many people can become a notary for just a few hundred dollars or less.
How Long Does It Take?
The timeline depends on your state's requirements.
Some applicants receive their commission within a few weeks, while others may take several months if additional education, testing, or background checks are required.
How Can Notaries Make Money?
Many notaries earn income by charging state-authorized fees for notarizations.
Others expand their services by becoming:
Mobile Notaries
Loan Signing Agents
Remote Online Notaries (where permitted)
Apostille Service Providers
Fingerprinting Providers (where allowed)
Many successful notaries build profitable businesses by offering multiple services.
Common Mistakes New Notaries Make
❌ Failing to Verify Identity
Always properly identify every signer.
❌ Forgetting to Keep a Journal
Even when not required, maintaining a journal is considered a best practice.
❌ Not Understanding State Laws
Every state has different notary requirements.
❌ Using an Expired Commission
Never notarize documents after your commission expires.
❌ Not Carrying E&O Insurance
A surety bond protects the public—not you.
Errors & Omissions Insurance helps protect your personal finances if you make a mistake.
Benefits of Becoming a Notary
Becoming a notary can provide many advantages.
✔ Flexible work schedule
✔ Additional income
✔ Low startup costs
✔ Opportunity to start your own business
✔ Valuable professional skill
✔ Opportunity to become a mobile notary or loan signing agent
Many professionals—including real estate agents, insurance agents, attorneys, accountants, and financial advisors—become notaries to better serve their clients.
Final Thoughts
Becoming a notary public is an affordable and rewarding way to earn additional income while providing an important service to your community.
Although the exact process varies by state, most applicants will need to meet eligibility requirements, complete an application, obtain a notary bond if required, and purchase the necessary supplies.
Working with an experienced provider like All American Bonds and Insurance makes it easy to obtain your notary bond and optional Errors & Omissions Insurance so you can begin your notary career with confidence.
FAQ
Do all states require a notary bond?
No. Some states require a surety bond, while others do not.
Is a notary bond the same as Errors & Omissions Insurance?
No. A notary bond protects the public, while Errors & Omissions Insurance helps protect the notary against certain covered claims.
How much does it cost to become a notary?
Costs vary by state but typically include application fees, supplies, and, if required, a notary bond and education.
Can I become a notary with a criminal record?
Possibly. Eligibility depends on your state's laws and the nature of any criminal convictions.
Can I make money as a notary?
Yes. Many notaries earn income through standard notarizations, mobile notary services, loan signings, remote online notarizations (where authorized), and other related services.
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