Notary Background Check

Do You Need a Background Check?

Some states require notaries to pass a fingerprint-based background check (e.g. Live Scan) before issuing a notary commission. These checks are mandatory in states like California and others. Even when not required, many title companies or signing services will require it for Loan Signing Agents.
It is always critical to check your official state website first before submitting a background check to ensure you are using a process that is state-compliant. Also, you can check with your signing services before paying for a background check. You can preview your state’s background check requirements and access agency links right here on Notary2Pro.
Client and loan signing agent doing his notary job.

What Is a Notary Background Check?

When required, these checks are mandatory in states like California and others. Even when not required, many title companies or signing services will require it for Loan Signing Agents. It is always critical to check your official state website first before submitting a background check to ensure you are using a process that is state-compliant. Also, you can check with your signing services before paying for a background check. You can preview your state’s background check requirements and access agency links right here on Notary2Pro.
Notary Bond Guide

States That Require Background Checks

States including California, Florida, Maryland, Texas, and others require fingerprint-based background checks for notaries. These are typically processed through Live Scan or approved fingerprint agencies.

Client and loan signing agent doing his notary job.

Recommended Background Check Providers

These commonly utilized vendors provide fingerprint-based background check services focused on notaries.

Provider Name

Description

Website

Crimcheck (DISA)

Offers state-standard background packages for new notaries, with results delivered via email.

Backgrounds Online

Offers criminal background check packages accepted by Snapdocs and title companies, meeting notary ndustry standards

ApplicantServices.com (Biometrics4ALL)

DOJ-approved Live Scan provider with nationwide enrollment centers—ideal for CA and other Live Scan states

Certifix Live Scan

Nationwide fingerprinting network (California DOJ/FBI approved) with online scheduling and fast processing

IdentoGO (Cogent)

State-authorized Live Scan provider in many jurisdictions, including fingerprint transmission to DOJ/FBI

Provider Name Description Website
Crimcheck (DISA) Offers state-standard background packages for new notaries, with results delivered via email. Contact Company
Backgrounds Online Offers criminal background check packages accepted by Snapdocs and title companies, meeting notary ndustry standards Contact Company
ApplicantServices.com
(Biometrics4ALL)
DOJ-approved Live Scan provider with nationwide enrollment centers—ideal for CA and other Live Scan states Contact Company
Certifix Live Scan Nationwide fingerprinting network (California DOJ/FBI approved) with online scheduling and fast processing Contact Company
IdentoGO (Cogent) State-authorized Live Scan provider in many jurisdictions, including fingerprint transmission to DOJ/FBI Contact Company

Helpful Resources

Notary Bond Guide

Notary Foundations Course – Your Next Step

Not sure whether your state requires a background check—or how to schedule one? Our Notary Foundations Course walks you step by step from eligibility to commission, helping you make confident decisions on required services.

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