How to Become a Notary Online
A notary is the person you go to when you need your signature witnessed on documents. Notaries also administer oaths, take depositions and similar tasks. They are considered public officials, commissioned (licensed) by their state government. Although you can take traditional classes through your Secretary of State's Office in most states, there are online notary courses available that many state governments recommend. You can prepare to become a notary online right up to the final step of being sworn in (that has to be done in person).
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Instructions
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Determine your state's requirements to become a notary online. In general, you must be at least 18 and able to read and write English. Misdemeanor convictions for fraud or other dishonest acts, felony convictions or having a past notary commission revoked disqualify a person for several years, or even permanently (depending on state regulations). Some states require you be a resident of that state but not all. The same is true of bonding. You have to purchase a notary bond in some states but not others. To check your state's requirements online, see the link in Resources.
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Sign up for an approved notary public training course online. The courses offered by the National Notary Association (NNA) and the Notary Law Institute (NLI) are both recommended by states like Arkansas, Alaska and Colorado, for example. Both offer online notary preparation tailored to each state. Choose from online classes or order self-study workbook and CD-ROM versions.
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Purchase an embosser or inked stamp and a bond (if required in your state). The NNA and NLI offer packages that include both. If you prefer to find your own bonding company, check with the Secretary of State notary website in your state. Most maintain a list of authorized bonding companies that provide online services. Prices vary, but as of 2009, a notary bond cost around $50.
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Follow your Secretary of State's guidelines to be sworn in and receive your commission as a notary public. This 1 step in becoming a notary cannot be done online because you must appear in person to take the oath. You will need to pay a filing fee. Notary commissions are issued for 4 to 5 years in most states and are renewable.
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