How to Become a Notary Public in NY State

Last Updated: March 4, 2023 Approved

To become a New York State Notary Public, you'll need to meet the requirements (which are not too tough to satisfy) and follow the correct procedures. Once you have the qualification, it's an awesome resume booster for job security or getting hired.

Steps

1
Make sure you meet the requirements for being a Notary Public. You must be 18 years old, live or work in New York State, permanent resident alien status and have no recent felony convictions. If you don't meet these requirements, your application will be denied. There are no special education requirements.
2
Get the New York State Licensing law Booklet with the exam schedule and procedures. This can be obtained from the New York Secretary of State, Division of Licensing services; or get it from the New York State Notary Public Association by calling 1-877-484-4673.^{[1]
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- Do not worry. The exam is only 40-multiple choice questions and you only need to score 70%. (That means you can even miss 12 and still pass.)
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3
Study for about a week if you are studying on your own. There is a 60 percent failure rate for people who simply walk into the exam––more than likely this is due to them not studying.^{[citation needed]} People who take an online class or attend the 5-hour class with the N.Y.S. Notary Association pass with a 99 percent rate.^{[citation needed]} Membership is free with the association.
4
Schedule your walk-in exam time with your employer. You do not need a job to qualify. In fact, this credential will certainly help you get a job if you are looking for a resume boost. The exam is given on a weekly basis in every major metropolitan area throughout N.Y. State except on state holidays.^{[2]
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5
On the morning of the exam, get there early. Bring a government issued photo ID that is not expired and has your signature. A driver's license is perfect. Bring a check or money order for $15, payable to: "Secretary of State". You can also use a Visa/Mastercard debit/credit card at the door.^{[3]
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- You will also be thumb printed.
- Latecomers are not admitted into the exam.
6
Allow approximately one (1) week for your pass slip to arrive in the mail. It will be accompanied by your "Oath of Office" affidavit.
7
Take your affidavit to any Notary Public or the County Clerk to have it notarized.
8
Mail your notarized affidavit back to the Division of Licensing services. Include a $60 check made out to the "Secretary Of State". Congratulations, your Notary Public license will arrive in the mail within 6 to 8 weeks.

Community Q&A

Question

What kind of questions might be asked on the exam?

Community Answer

Here are a few examples: (1) A notary public is BEST described as a(n): amicus curiae, public official, legal council, or actuary. (2) The office at notary public was established by: Ancient Greece, medieval England, the Roman empire, or colonial America. Those are just two examples of some questions you might see on your exam.
Question

If I live in NYC and become a Notary Public, can I notarize in New Jersey since I work there?

Community Answer

No. Your jurisdiction is the physical boundaries of New York state. You can notarize things from New Jersey only when you are with the person whose signature you are notarizing while together inside New York state.
Question

Does this require having a background check performed?

Community Answer

The state of New York does not publish info about background checks on Notaries Public applications. However, you can pretty much be guaranteed that they will check the databases for criminal backgrounds.