How to become a notary public: step-by-step
Updated 2026-05-01 ✓ Reviewed for accuracy FounderIgnite Editorial
Becoming a notary public is one of the most accessible professional credentials available. The requirements are minimal in most states, the cost is low, and it opens the door to a side income as a mobile notary or a full-time career as a notary signing agent. Here's how to do it.
Short version: Apply through your state's Secretary of State (or equivalent),
get your notary bond, pass any required exam, get commissioned, and buy your stamp and journal.
Total cost: $100–$400. Timeline: 1–8 weeks depending on your state.
General requirements in most states
Requirements vary by state, but most require:
- Age 18+ (some states require 21)
- Legal US resident or citizen
- No felony convictions (varies by state and type)
- A surety bond (amount varies by state)
- Application fee paid to the state
- Some states require a training course and/or exam
Step-by-step: how to become a notary
- Check your state's requirements — Search "[Your state] notary commission requirements" or go to your Secretary of State's website. Note the required bond amount, any exam requirements, and the application fee.
- Get your notary bond — Required in most states before or with your application. Most bonds cost $50–$100 for a 4-year term and are issued same day online.
- Complete any required training — Some states (California, New York, others) require a state-approved notary training course. These typically cost $20–$75 and can be completed online.
- Submit your application — File with your state's Secretary of State, county clerk, or notary division. Most states offer online applications.
- Take the oath of office (if required) — Some states require you to appear before a county clerk to take your oath after receiving your commission.
- Get your notary stamp and journal — Required in most states. An embosser or ink stamp ($20–$50) and a notary journal ($15–$30).
- Consider E&O insurance — Protects you personally from claims arising from notarization errors. Highly recommended for mobile notaries and NSAs.
Get your notary bond today
Required in most states. Same-day online issuance — most notary bonds cost $50–$100.
Get bonded at SuretyBondly →3 ways notaries earn income
- General mobile notary services — Witnessing signatures, acknowledgments, jurats. Typical fee: $10–$15 per notarial act (many states cap fees), plus travel fee ($25–$75+). Good side income.
- Notary signing agent (loan closings) — The highest-earning notary niche. NSAs handle real estate loan document signings for title companies. Fee per signing: $75–$200. An NSA doing 2–3 signings per day earns $150–$600 daily.
- Remote online notarization (RON) — In states that allow it, notaries can perform notarizations via video over the internet. Platforms like Notarize, Notaroo, and Proof connect you with clients nationwide.
Also need E&O insurance?
Protect yourself from client claims — GL + professional liability for notaries is available through Thimble.
Thimble
A-rated GL, BOP, professional liability, and equipment coverage. Bind online in minutes — download your COI the same day.
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to become a notary?
The timeline varies by state. In most states, the process takes 1–4 weeks from application to commission. States that require an exam or training course (like California) may take 4–8 weeks. States with simpler requirements (like Texas) can be faster.
How much does it cost to become a notary?
Total costs typically run $100–$400 depending on state: state application fee ($20–$120), mandatory training or exam fee ($0–$100 in some states), notary bond ($50–$100), notary stamp and journal ($30–$80), and optional E&O insurance ($65–$150/year).
Can notaries make good money?
Yes — especially mobile notaries and notary signing agents. General mobile notary work pays $50–$150 per appointment. Notary signing agents (real estate loan closings) earn $75–$200 per signing. Full-time mobile notaries in active markets can earn $50,000–$100,000+/year.
What is a notary signing agent (NSA)?
A notary signing agent is a notary who specializes in loan document signings — typically real estate closings, refinances, and home equity loans. NSAs work with title companies and signing services to notarize and witness the borrower's signature on mortgage documents. This is the highest-earning notary niche.
Do I need to be certified to be a notary signing agent?
The NNA (National Notary Association) offers an NSA certification that is widely recognized by title companies and signing services. It includes a background check and exam. While not legally required in most states, NNA certification significantly improves your chances of being accepted by signing platforms.
Get the FounderIgnite newsletter
Tips, insurance guides, and business resources — tailored to your industry. No spam, unsubscribe any time.
FounderIgnite · 9169 W State St #1888, Garden City ID 83714 · Unsubscribe
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and is not legal, tax, or insurance advice. Coverage availability and pricing vary by state and applicant. Always verify requirements with your state licensing board and confirm policy terms directly with your carrier before relying on this information.