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Become a Notary Public at Notary Rotary
In general, to become a notary public, you must be 18 years of age, not have a serious criminal history, be of good character and be a United States citizen. Notary commissions (sometimes referred to as notary licenses) are usually managed by the Secretary of State's office in your state. Providing you meet the basic qualifications, the process of becoming a notary public typically goes something like this:
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Complete Notary Training by Taking a Free Notary Course or Seminar from a Company Offering Live Notary Classes
Notary Rotary is currently offering a free on-line course to current and prospective California notaries. The course, Notary Public 101™, features the
same information found in our self-study course and is supported by an intensive, on-line practice exam. Pass our exam and you should be ready for the real thing!
Formal notary training is only required in a handful of states
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Complete the Notary Application
In most cases, the application will be available as a downloadable PDF file on the Secretary of State's web site. Submit the application to the Secretary of State along with an application fee.
In California, the application is taken to the testing center, along with a Proof of Completion certificate from the mandatory education course.
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Wait for Your Results
It may take awhile to process your application. In Iowa, the application can be taken directly to the Secretary of State's office for immediate processing. In California, it may take a couple months, during which time your background is checked.
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Purchase Your Notary Bond
If your state has a notary bond requirement, you must purchase a surety bond covering your commission term in the amount required by law and then must file it with the state. That process often involves taking an oath of office, as well. A fee is generally charged for filing the bond.
Approximately 30 states have bonding requirements. In some states, the bond is purchased and filed AFTER the commission is issued; in other states, the bond must be purchased in advance and must be included with the notary application.
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Purchase Your Notary Stamp or Notary Seal, Notary Journal, Optional Notary Insurance and Other Items
Buying quality supplies is always a good idea. Keep in mind that you will want them to last for the term of your commission and, depending on your responsibilities as a notary public, you may find yourself using your supplies quite often.
Notary E&O insurance is always strongly recommended and, if your state does not already require it, keeping a notary journal is an extremely good practice. If you live in California, make sure your notary stamp manufacturer is an approved vendor; ONLY approved companies are allowed to manufacture notary seals for California notaries public. And, regardless of the state you live in, make sure the supplies you purchase conform to state law. Notary Rotary manufactures and sells supplies in all 50 states.
Note that note all states require all items and that some states will require others. In California, for example, a thumbprint pad should be purchased because all notarizations involving real property transactions require that a thumbprint be recorded in the notary journal.
Finally, in most cases, the process for renewing a notary commission is the same as applying for a new one. For specific information, please visit our notary education page, select your state from the list and Search.
