Whether you want to start a mobile notary business, make a little extra money, or add something new to your resume, becoming a notary public can be a great way to make a few bucks.

You must submit an application, take the oath of office, and pass the state exam to become a notary public. It is a quick, easy, and affordable process that can immediately get you started!

Applying to be a notary

There is much to learn about the procedure, whether you want to become a notary public in New York or elsewhere. It is a complex process with many quirks that may differ in every state.

A notary public is a government officer who performs a variety of official fraud-deterrent acts related to the signing of important documents. They are commissioned by the secretary of state and governed by a set of laws requiring them to follow a strict code of conduct.

In most states, applying to be a notary public involves filling out an application form and paying fees. The Secretary of State must benefit from checks or money orders to produce these non-refundable fees.

Training

The training required to become a notary public varies by state. Some states require that notaries take a training course before taking the oath of office and passing their exam, while others do not have any requirements.

Notary training teaches notaries how to verify the identity of witnesses, maintain a record book and work with different types of documents. Community colleges and notary organizations often offer these courses.

To learn more about the training necessary to become a notary public, check with your secretary of state’s office. They can help you determine whether the training you need is available in your area and how long it will take to complete.

Becoming a notary public can take time, but it is worthwhile. It can lead to a law, real estate, or banking career. It can be a terrific method to expand your professional network.

Taking the oath of office

The oath of office is essential for newly appointed notaries and public and elected officials. Taking the oath of office signifies your dedication to upholding the Constitution and serving the needs of the people, regardless of whether you are the President of the United States, a government employee, a congressman, a senator, or a judge.

The first step in taking the oath of office is to apply for a notary public commission. It involves using the appropriate fee and a notary public bond to the Secretary of State.

Once the application and notary public bond is approved, the notary public is commissioned by the Secretary of State and can take the oath of office. This process is then completed at the county clerk’s office in the county of residence.

Once a notary takes the oath of office, they must file it with the county clerk. It is done by completing a notary public bond form, which includes the notary’s signature, date, notary seal, and the official’s title.

Registering your signature

Registering your signature is a critical step in becoming a notary public. It is essential because your signature may be used to verify voter registration applications or candidate and initiative petitions in the county where you live or do business.

In addition, the Secretary of State forwards your commission, oath, and signature to your county clerk. The county clerk keeps this record, which is accessible to the public.

Once your commission and signature are registered, you can act as a notary public anywhere in New York State. However, you must purchase a Certificate of Official Character from the county clerk in which you qualified or in which you’ve filed with that county’s clerk.

Once you have completed the application process, received training, and passed your state-administered exam, it’s time to start notarizing! Ensure you have all of your qualifications in place and complete fingerprinting and background checks as necessary.

Jane