How to Become a Notary Public In New York

Many official documents must be notarized.

Becoming a notary public in New York requires you to pass of a written examination prior to submitting an application to the Division of Licensing Services. This requirement is not part of the notary public application process in most states, but is becoming more popular as the responsibilities of notaries public increase.

Things You'll Need

• Notice of passing grade on notary pubic examination
• $15 examination fee
• Notary public application
• $60 application fee

Instructions

The Notary Public Walk-In Examination

1. Locate the nearest testing center, and look up the testing schedule for that site. Testing centers have examinations once a week, at two different times during the day. The Notaries Public webpage of the New York State Department of State, Division of Licensing Services website, has a list of the testing centers and test times. Review the testing center policies about food and beverages, the use of cellphones or reference material, and other important information, before going to a testing center.

2. Arrive on time for the examination --- seating is limited. Bring an acceptable form of photo ID (see the list on the walk-in examination webpage), and the $15 examination fee, payable by money order, credit card or check.

3. Take the test within the one hour alloted time, and answer 70 percent of the questions correctly. Questions are on topics covered in the "Notary Public License Law" booklet. This booklet is available at the Division of Licensing Services. Applicants who pass the test receive a notice in the mail that must be included when you apply to become a notary public.

The Notary Public Application

1. Complete the notary public application that will arrive with your examination results and notice. This application is not available online. If you are exempt from taking the examination, you may request an application form via email at the email address shown on the Notary Public webpage. New York attorneys and court clerks may become notaries public without taking the examination.

2. Send your completed application, along with the $60 application fee, to the Division of Licensing Services address shown on the application.

3. Wait approximately four-to-six weeks for the Division of Licensing Services to mail you your Notary Public Identification Card. Your name and address, your county, and the expiration date of your term will be shown on the ID card. An New York notary public term is four years. Your county clerk's office will maintain the information about your commission, and a copy of your official signature, which is available for the public to view.

Tips & Warnings

• A New York notary public may not charge more than $2 for her services.

• In general, felons cannot be notaries public. However, some may be considered if they can provide a certificate of good conduct from their parole board, or an executive pardon.

References

• New York Dept. of State; Division of Licensing Services; Notary Public
• New York Notary Public License Law, June 2011