💼 Jobs & Career
How to Become a Notary Public
Notaries earn$25-75 per signing with minimal startup costs. Here's how to get commissioned and start earning in as little as2 weeks.
Requirements (Most States)
- Age: 18+ years old
- Residency: Must live in the state where applying
- Background: Clean criminal record
- Training: 3-6 hour course (varies by state)
- Exam: Some states require a notary exam
- Bond: $5,000-$15,000 surety bond (costs$50-$150)
Startup Costs
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| Application fee | $20-$60 |
| Notary course | $20-$100 |
| Surety bond | $50-$150 |
| Notary stamp | $15-$30 |
| Notary journal | $10-$25 |
| Total | $115-$365 |
Earning Potential
- General notary: $25-$75 per signing
- Mobile notary: $50-$150 per signing (travel to client)
- Loan signing agent: $75-$200 per closing
- Notary wedding officiant: $100-$300 per ceremony
The loan signing agent shortcut: Loan signing agents earn the most ($75-$200 per signing). Take a loan signing course ($100-$300) after getting commissioned. Title companies will send you business. This is the fastest path to $50K+/year as a notary.
⚠️ Notary Tips:
- Don't skip the bonding requirement " — it protects clients if you make an error
- Don't notarize documents for family " — most states prohibit it
- Don't forget to renew on time " — your commission expires every4 years
- Don't charge too little "$25 is standard, don't undercut yourself
The bottom line: Becoming a notary costs$115-$365 and takes 1-3 weeks. Earn $25-$200 per signing. Loan signing agents earn the most. Great side hustle or full-time business. Renew every4 years.