How to Become a Notary in New York

First-time notary applicants must take and pass the NYS notary public examination. Notaries applying for reappointment are not required to take and pass another notary public examination.

Yes, must complete an approved training course.

Examination schedules are updated every two months and posted on the Department of State’s website. A “pass slip” will be mailed to those notary applicants who passed the examination. This slip must be uploaded when completing the notary application online. An attorney and counselor at law duly admitted to practice in the state of New York or a court clerk of the Unified Court System who has been appointed to such a position after taking a Civil Service promotional examination in the court clerk series of title are not required to take and pass the examination.

Yes, an exam is required

No background check is required

A notary bond is not required in New York to become a notary public or to renew your notary public commission

No bond is required

Yes, application and a fee required

Stamp Required

To qualify for appointment, an oath of office must be signed in the presence of a commissioned Notary and submitted to the Department of State with your completed application and $60 fee. This form must be completed prior to applying for a commission. Please complete this form prior to starting your application in your New York Business Express account. You will need to upload a scan of the completed form to your application when prompted. The name printed in which you wish to be commissioned must conform exactly to the signature that will be used as a notary public. Initials may be used, as in John A. Doe or J. Arthur Doe, but NOT J. Doe or J.A. Doe.

Yes, an Oath is required