Notary Public Career Guide

A Notary Public authenticates signatures, verifies signers' identities, administers oaths, and records acts related to legal documents (e.g., affidavits, deeds, powers of attorney). Daily tasks include verifying IDs, witnessing signatures, completing journal entries, applying official seals, ensuring signer comprehension, following state statutes, and maintaining records. Notaries may work in banks, law firms, real estate offices, government agencies, or as mobile/independent providers offering on-site or remote notarizations.

What skills does a Notary Public need?

Attention to detail and accuracy (document and identity verification)Strong ethical standards and reliabilityClear verbal communication and discretionary judgmentFamiliarity with state notary laws and recordkeepingBasic office technology skills (scanning, e-signature platforms)Customer service and handling sensitive situationsTime management and appointment scheduling

How do I become a Notary Public?

Confirm eligibility and state requirements

Check your state's notary statutes for age, residency, criminal record restrictions, education, bond, and application instructions on the official secretary of state or commissions website.

Complete required training and pass any exam

Take any mandated state-approved education, workshops, or online courses and prepare for and pass a state exam if required.

Submit application, fees, bond, and background check

Apply to the state commissioning authority with fingerprints/background check if required, purchase a notary bond or insurance, and pay the commission fee.

Acquire supplies and register if needed for e-notary

Obtain an official seal/stamp, a notary journal, acknowledgement and jurat forms, and complete any state registration for electronic or remote notarization.

Start notarizing and build experience

Begin offering services at employers or as a mobile/independent notary, keep meticulous records of all acts, and build a client base through networking and local listings.

Specialize and expand credentials

Pursue specialized certifications (loan signing, advanced e-notary), join notary professional associations, and add mobile or remote notary services to increase income.

What education do you need to become a Notary Public?

No specific college degree is required in most jurisdictions. A high school diploma or equivalent is usually sufficient. Recommended alternatives: paralegal or legal assistant coursework, short-state-approved notary training classes, online courses on remote/e-notarization, and continuing education for specialty notarizations (loan signings).

Recommended Certifications for Notary Publics

State Notary Commission (required) — issued by the Secretary of State or equivalent
National Notary Association (NNA) Basic Notary Certification
Notary Signing Agent (NSA) Certification for mortgage and loan signings
Remote/e-Notary Training or State-Approved Electronic Notarization Registration

Notary Public Job Outlook & Demand

Demand for notaries remains steady due to ongoing need for authenticated signatures in real estate, legal, and financial transactions. Growth will be stable over the next decade with increasing opportunities in remote/e-notarization and mobile services. Automation and electronic workflows may reduce some traditional in-office volume but create new demand for certified e-notaries and specialized signing agents.

Frequently Asked Questions About Becoming a Notary Public

What is a Notary Public and what do they do?

A Notary Public is a state-appointed official who verifies identities, witnesses signatures, administers oaths, and certifies documents to deter fraud and ensure validity.

How do I become a Notary Public?

Typically you must meet your state's eligibility rules, complete required education, pass any required exam, submit an application with fees, and obtain a state commission and bond.

How long does it take to become a Notary?

Time varies by state: many applicants complete required training and get commissioned in 4–12 weeks, depending on course schedules and state processing times.

Can I notarize documents electronically or remotely?

Many states allow electronic or remote notarization if the notary completes state-approved e-notary/remote notarization registration and technological requirements.