How Long Does It Take to Become a Notary?
Quick Answer
2–6 weeks in most states. The process includes training (if required), passing an exam (some states), submitting an application, and receiving your commission.
Typical Duration
Quick Answer
Becoming a notary public takes 2–6 weeks in most states. The timeline depends on your state's training and exam requirements, application processing speed, and whether you need to obtain a surety bond. Some states like Florida can be completed in under 2 weeks, while states like California or New York with mandatory coursework and exams take 4–6 weeks.
State Requirements Comparison
| State | Training Required | Exam Required | Bond Required | Typical Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| California | 6-hour course | Yes (passing score 70%) | $15,000 bond | 4–6 weeks |
| Texas | None | None | $10,000 bond | 2–3 weeks |
| Florida | 3-hour course | None | $7,500 bond | 1–2 weeks |
| New York | 2-hour course | Yes | None (filing fee instead) | 4–6 weeks |
| Pennsylvania | None | None | $10,000 bond | 3–4 weeks |
| Ohio | 3-hour course | None | None | 2–3 weeks |
| Illinois | None | None | $5,000 bond | 3–4 weeks |
| Colorado | None | None | None (no bond required) | 1–2 weeks |
| North Carolina | 6-hour course | None | $10,000 bond | 3–4 weeks |
| Georgia | None | None | None | 2–3 weeks |
Step-by-Step Process
Step 1: Check Eligibility (Day 1)
Most states require:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Be a legal resident of the state where you're applying
- Have no felony convictions (some states allow it with exceptions)
- Be able to read and write English
Step 2: Complete Required Training (Days 1–7)
About 20 states require a training course before you can apply. Course length ranges from 2 to 6 hours and covers notarial law, proper identification procedures, document types, and journal keeping. Many states accept online courses, which can be completed in a single sitting.
Step 3: Pass the Exam (Day 7–14)
Approximately 10 states require a notary exam. The exam is typically multiple-choice, covers material from the required course, and has a passing score around 70–80%. Most applicants pass on the first attempt.
Step 4: Obtain a Surety Bond (Day 7–14)
Most states require a surety bond to protect the public from notary errors. Bond amounts range from $5,000 to $25,000, but the bond premium you pay is typically only $25–$75 for a 4-year term. You can purchase bonds online from surety companies in minutes.
Step 5: Submit Your Application (Day 14–21)
File your application with the state's commissioning authority (usually the Secretary of State). Include:
- Completed application form
- Proof of training/exam completion
- Surety bond (if required)
- Filing fee ($20–$60 in most states)
Many states now accept online applications, which process faster than paper submissions.
Step 6: Receive Your Commission (Week 3–6)
Processing times vary by state. Once approved, you'll receive your notary commission certificate. You'll then need to purchase your notary supplies — stamp/seal, journal, and acknowledgment certificates.
Commission Length by State
Notary commissions are not permanent. You'll need to renew periodically:
- 4 years: California, Texas, Florida, New York, Ohio, Illinois, Pennsylvania
- 5 years: North Carolina, Georgia, Colorado, Michigan
- 7 years: Maine
- 10 years: Massachusetts
Remote Online Notarization (RON)
As of 2025, over 45 states allow Remote Online Notarization, where notarizations are performed via video call. Becoming a RON-certified notary requires additional steps:
- Extra training: 2–4 hour RON-specific course covering identity verification technology and electronic signatures
- Technology requirements: You'll need an approved RON platform (Notarize, DocVerify, Nexsys, etc.)
- Separate application: Most states require a separate RON registration in addition to your traditional notary commission
- Additional time: Add 1–2 weeks to the standard timeline
- Higher fees: RON registration fees are typically $50–$100 on top of the standard notary application fee
RON is especially valuable for notaries who want to serve clients nationwide, as many states allow out-of-state RON sessions.
Costs to Become a Notary
- Training course: $0–$150 (free in some states, up to $150 for comprehensive courses)
- Exam fee: $0–$40 (if applicable)
- Surety bond premium: $25–$75 (for the full commission term)
- Application/filing fee: $20–$60
- Notary stamp/seal: $15–$30
- Journal: $10–$25
- Total: Roughly $75–$300 depending on your state