How to Become a Notary in Vermont

The Office of Professional Regulation is currently in the process of adopting rules regarding continuing education requirements for notaries public seeking to renew their Vermont commissions. The guidance, below, aligns with the proposed rules. For notary public commissions being renewed on or before January 31, 2023, OPR will accept coursework that complies with the following guidelines: One (1) hour of CE is required. Content must be related to the maintenance and enhancement of the skill, knowledge, and competency to perform notarial acts in accordance with Vermont’s laws and requirements. The course can be synchronous or asynchronous, recorded or live, or in-person or remote The course must contain both audio and visual content.

No training is required.

For applications received prior to February 1, 2021, no examination is required. Initial applicants submitting an application on or after February 1, 2021 will need to pass an examination based on the statutes, rules, and ethics relevant to notarial acts.

Yes, an exam is required

No background check is required

No bond is required

Yes, application and a fee required

Stamp Required

Under the new law, notaries public must apply for a new commission through the Office of Professional Regulation rather than renew their old notary public commission. All applications for a new notary public commission will need to be submitted online with the Office of Professional Regulation by January 31, 2019. Town and county clerks and other agencies are no longer accepting notary public commission renewals.