State Requirements
How to Become a Notary in New York
New York notary requirements, fees, bond amounts, and step-by-step instructions.
New York Notary Requirements at a Glance
Exam Required
Yes
Surety Bond
Not required
Commission Term
4 years
Education Required
None
E&O Insurance
Optional (recommended)
Background Check
Not required
Application Fee
$60
Appointing Authority
Secretary of State
Journal Required
No (recommended)
Remote Online Notarization
Authorized
Must pass an exam. No bond required. Very low fees ($2 per act).
Steps to Become a Notary in New York
Meet Basic Requirements
You must be at least 18 years old and a resident of New York. You must be a legal U.S. resident with no disqualifying criminal record.
Pass the Notary Exam
New York requires passing a state-administered notary exam. The exam covers notary law, procedures, and ethics. Prepare with practice tests and study materials.
Submit Your Application
Apply through the Secretary of State. The application fee is $60.
Purchase Your Notary Seal & Supplies
Get your official notary seal/stamp, notary journal (if required), and any other supplies needed for your practice.
Take the Oath of Office
Once your commission is approved, take the oath of office as required by New York law. Your commission will be valid for 4 years.
New York Notary Fee Schedule
Maximum fees a notary can charge per act in New York:
| Notarial Act | Max Fee |
|---|---|
| Acknowledgment | $2.00 |
| Jurat (Verification on Oath/Affirmation) | $2.00 |
| Oath / Affirmation | $2.00 |
| Copy Certification | $2.00 |
| Signature Witnessing | $2.00 |
| Protest | $0.75 |
$2 per act. Protest of bill: $0.75.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to take an exam to become a notary in New York? +
Yes, New York requires passing a notary exam. The exam covers notary laws, procedures, and ethical responsibilities specific to New York.
How much does it cost to become a notary in New York? +
The application fee is $60. Add $15–40 for a notary seal. Total startup cost is typically $85–$100.
How long is a notary commission in New York? +
A notary commission in New York lasts 4 years. After that, you’ll need to renew by filing a new application and bond (if required).
Can I perform Remote Online Notarization (RON) in New York? +
Yes, New York authorizes Remote Online Notarization. You’ll need to register as an electronic notary and use an approved RON platform.
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Preparing for the Notary Exam?
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