Have you ever thought about becoming a notary? Notaries play an important role in our communities by helping people sign legal documents and verifying identities. It’s a great way to earn extra income, work from home, or even start a new career. If you’re interested in becoming a notary, this guide will walk you through the steps.
What Is a Notary?
A notary, also known as a notary public, is a person authorized by the state to witness the signing of important documents. Notaries help prevent fraud by verifying the identity of the people signing and making sure they understand what they are signing. Some of the common documents notaries handle include:
- Contracts
- Loan documents
- Wills
- Power of attorney forms
- Property deeds
Notaries do not give legal advice or explain documents. Their job is to confirm identities and make sure people sign willingly.
Step 1: Check Your State’s Requirements
The rules for becoming a notary are different in each state. Some states have strict requirements, while others make it easy to become a notary. A good first step is to check with your state’s notary office or website. Most states require you to:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Be a legal resident of the state
- Have no serious criminal record
Some states may also require you to take a training course or pass an exam.
Step 2: Complete a Notary Training Course (If Required)
Some states, like California and Florida, require notaries to take a training course before they can apply. These courses teach you the laws and responsibilities of being a notary. Even if your state doesn’t require it, taking a course can help you feel more confident in your role.
You can find notary courses online or in-person through local organizations, colleges, or notary associations. The course may last a few hours or a couple of days, depending on your state’s rules.
Step 3: Submit Your Notary Application
Once you meet the requirements, you’ll need to submit an application to your state’s notary office. You may need to include:
- A completed application form
- A small application fee (usually $20–$100)
- Proof that you completed any required training
- A background check (in some states)
- Your fingerprints (only in certain states)
Each state has different processing times, so check with your state’s notary office to find out how long it will take.
Step 4: Pass the Notary Exam (If Required)
Some states require notaries to pass a test before they can get their commission. The exam usually covers:
- Notary laws and responsibilities
- How to properly verify identity
- The importance of keeping accurate records
- What to do if you suspect fraud
If your state requires an exam, make sure you study beforehand. Many training courses include practice tests to help you prepare.
Step 5: Get a Notary Bond (If Required)
Many states require notaries to buy a notary bond before they start working. A notary bond is a type of insurance that protects the public if a notary makes a mistake or commits fraud. The amount of the bond varies by state, but it’s usually between $5,000 and $25,000.
You can buy a notary bond from insurance companies or notary associations. The cost depends on the amount required but is usually around $50–$100.
Step 6: Receive Your Notary Commission
Once your application is approved, you will receive your notary commission certificate. This document officially allows you to work as a notary. Some states require you to take an oath of office, which means you promise to follow the law when performing notary duties.
Step 7: Get Your Notary Supplies
To perform notary duties, you will need the right tools. The most common supplies include:
- Notary seal or stamp – This is used to mark documents and prove you notarized them.
- Notary journal – Some states require notaries to keep a journal of all notarized documents.
- Notary certificates – These are special forms used when notarizing certain types of documents.
You can buy these supplies online or from a notary supply store.
Step 8: Start Notarizing Documents
Once you have your commission and supplies, you can start notarizing documents! You can work in different ways, including:
- Offering notary services from your home
- Working in an office, bank, or law firm
- Becoming a mobile notary, where you travel to clients
- Specializing in real estate and loan document notarization
How Much Money Can You Make as a Notary?
The amount of money you can make as a notary depends on your state and how often you notarize documents. Most states set a maximum fee notaries can charge, usually between $5 and $15 per signature. However, if you become a mobile notary or specialize in real estate, you can charge higher fees for travel and additional services.
Some notaries make a few hundred dollars a month as a side job, while others turn it into a full-time career making thousands per month.
Renewing Your Notary Commission
Notary commissions are not permanent. In most states, you need to renew your commission every 4 to 10 years. The renewal process usually involves submitting a new application and paying a renewal fee. Some states may also require you to take another training course or pass an exam.
Final Thoughts
Becoming a notary in Newport Beach is a great way to earn extra money while providing an important service to your community. The process is straightforward, but it’s important to follow your state’s rules and requirements. If you’re ready to get started, check your state’s notary website for specific details and begin your journey today!
