Notary Public License & Certification

What is a Notary Public?

A notary has a simple, but important job. A notary manages signers of important documents and screens them to validate they are who they say they are. A notary may also validate that the signer is willingly signing the documents, is without duress or intimidation, and is fully aware of the contents of the document or transaction.

Becoming an independent notary public allows you an opportunity to have a part-time or full-time job, but work the hours that fit within your lifestyle and family life. It is the perfect freelancing gig that can accommodate a host of lifestyles.

Alternatively, if you plan to start a business in finance, law, or real estate, obtaining your notary public license will allow you to legally administer oaths and affirmations; take affidavits and depositions; accept and certify proof of deeds, mortgages, and powers of attorney; and demand payment of foreign and inland bills of exchange, promissory notes, and obligations in writing. Adding the notary function to your existing business lets you add an additional stream of income to it and display a sign indicating that you offer notary services.

How to Get Your Notary License

There are a few qualifications you’ll need to consider before studying to become a notary. You must be at least 18, a legal resident of the state you plan to practice in, and without any felony arrests.

Next, you’ll need to study at an accredited notary program, such as the National Notary Association. There’s a fee for this program, so build it into the cost of getting your business license. Many programs are available online, which is convenient, especially if you’re working full-time. Each state has a requirement for how many hours of study you need to qualify to take the notary public exam. In California, you need 6 hours of study.

Once you complete your education, you can take the exam for the notary public license. Bring a valid form of identification to the test, and be prepared to hand over your cell phone or other technology. No notes may be used and you’ll need to make at least 70% to pass.  Once you pass the test, you’ll receive your notary public license paperwork in the mail.

It will be your responsibility to purchase notary supplies, including a notary stamp or seal, registry or record book, handbook, and guide. In most states, you’ll also need to obtain a notary bond and Errors & Omissions insurance.

Once all these steps are met, you’ll then be sworn in as a notary, where you agree to uphold the law.

State Rules Matter

When you start the process of obtaining a notary license, remember you do this at the state or county level, and that each state has its own rules and regulations. It’s very important that you research your specific state and follow those rules. This research process can be intimidating and a bit confusing, but don’t worry, that is where CorpNet helps! Our team of filing experts can do the research for you. We’ll provide you with the information you need to start your career as an independent notary public or add this option to your existing business.