How to Become a Pennsylvania Notary

Becoming a Pennsylvania notary public is straightforward if you follow the correct steps and meet the state’s requirements. Generally speaking, the process follows these steps:

1. Meet Eligibility Requirements: To work as a notary, you must be at least 18 years of age and a legal resident of Pennsylvania. You also cannot have been convicted of a felony or a crime involving moral turpitude in the past ten years. 
 
2. Complete the Notary Public Basic Course: Next, you must sign up and successfully finish a pre-approved, three-hour notary public basic course. They may take the course through an approved provider or the Pennsylvania Department of State website. 
 
3. File Your Application: Aspiring notaries need to submit their application, evidence of course completion, and a $42 filing fee to the Pennsylvania Department of State. You can apply online or by mail. 
 
4. Obtain a $10,000 Bond: Once your application is approved and you receive your commission certificate, you must obtain a $10,000 surety bond. These can be purchased through a licensed insurer. 
 
5. Register Your Official Signature: You must have your signature on record in the county where your business is located. Register your signature, and then purchase a notary supplies package with the right tools to facilitate your business. 
 
6. File Your Oath and Bond: Within 45 days of being appointed, you must take the oath of office and record the bond, commission, and oath of office with the recorder of deeds in your business’s county. Likewise, within 90 days of recording the bond, you should file a copy of it and the oath of office with the Pennsylvania Department of State.

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