Legal & Administrative
Notary Public
A notary public is a state-commissioned official who verifies identities and witnesses the signing of important documents.
What They Do
Verify signers' identities, witness the signing of documents like deeds, powers of attorney, and loan papers, administer oaths, and complete official notarial certificates.
Why someone might consider this career
Commissioning is fast and inexpensive in most states, the work is flexible, and it can complement another career. Requirements, bond rules, and training mandates vary substantially by state.
Work Environment
The Basics
Training time
Days to weeks, plus your state's commissioning process
Training cost
Information pending verification
Education commonly associated with entry
Information pending verification
Certification / licensing
Required: a state notary commission — every state differs on exam, training, bond, and insurance requirements. Some states permit remote online notarization with additional approval. Verify with your state's commissioning authority.
Physical demand
Low
People interaction
Moderate
Remote potential
Moderate
Self-employment potential
High
Typical Training Path
- 1Check your state's commissioning requirements (exam, training, bond)
- 2Complete any required state training and pass the exam if applicable
- 3Apply for your commission, bond, and supplies
- 4Start notarizing — and decide whether to add mobile or online services
- 5Renew on your state's schedule
A common route — actual requirements vary by program, employer, and state.
Certification & licensing note: Required: a state notary commission — every state differs on exam, training, bond, and insurance requirements. Some states permit remote online notarization with additional approval. Verify with your state's commissioning authority.
A course certificate, a professional certification, and a state license are three different things — completing training alone never makes you licensed or certified.
Licensing & requirements in your state
Requirements for this career vary by jurisdiction. We never assume your location — pick your state to check.
Select your state to see requirements.
Training Programs
National Notary Association
National Notary Association Notary Training
Notary commission preparation. Completing training does not make you a commissioned notary — your commission comes from your state.
Duration
Pending verification
Price
Pending verification
State relevance: State-specific training requirements and availability vary — verify for your state
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Related Careers
Frequently Asked Questions
Does completing notary training make me a commissioned notary?
No. A course teaches the material; your commission comes from your state after you meet its requirements (application, possible exam, bond, fee). Rules differ significantly by state — always verify with your state's commissioning authority.
Can I notarize online?
Some states permit remote online notarization with additional approval and technology requirements. Availability is state-specific and the rules change — verify current rules with your state.
Last verified: September 26, 2026
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Career requirements, licensing rules, education requirements, costs, and employment conditions can change. Verify official requirements with the appropriate licensing agency, credentialing body, employer, or educational institution. Lucky Finds does not guarantee admission, certification, licensure, employment, salary, or career outcomes.