How to Become a Notary Public in Arkansas

A notary public provides routine legal services such as taking depositions, administering oaths, and verifying the identities of people. The notary public also witnesses signatures on documents such as deeds, wills and license applications. To become a notary public in Arkansas you must be at least 18 years of age and either a US citizen or permanent resident alien, and not have had a commission as a notary revoked in the past 10 years.

Things You'll Need

• Application
• Surety bond
• Application fee

Instructions

1. Take a notary public training class. The Arkansas Secretary of State Business and Commercial Services Division offers monthly free seminars in Little Rock (see Resources below). If that isn't convenient, online training is available through the National Notary Association (see Resources below). The training is usually a 1-day course that acquaints you with the procedures and laws governing the activities of a notary public in Arkansas.

2. Purchase a notary surety bond ($7,500 as of 2009). Bonding companies set their own rates, but a notary surety bond typically costs about $50. The Business and Commercial Services Division maintains a list of Arkansas bonding companies but does not require that you use a company on the list, only that you be bonded.

3. Complete the application to become a notary pubic In Arkansas. Applications are available online from either the Business and Commercial Services Division or the National Notary Association. You can also order an application packet by calling [phone] or toll-free at [phone]. Be sure you sign the application exactly as your name will appear on documents you notarize.

4. Send the completed application, the surety bond and the application fee ($20 as of 2009) to: Arkansas Secretary of State, Business and Commercial Services Division, State Capitol Room 256, Little Rock, Arkansas, 72201-1094.

5. File your commission with the county clerk in the county where you live within 30 days of receiving your commission as a notary public. You will receive your notary stamp/embosser when you appear to take your oath along with your certificate (the oath is administered by the county clerk in most cases). Your commission is good for 10 years and is renewable at that time.

Resources

• National Notary Association
• Arkansas Secretary of State: Notary Public