I’ve been a notary for a number of years now and although I don’t notarize nearly the number of documents I did when I worked for a corporation, I still consider it a valuable asset. For those of you who’ve thought about it, but haven’t gotten around to checking out what’s required, I wanted to share some information that I hope will urge you to consider applying.
First, some minimum requirements: you must be at least 18 years old, free of any felony convictions and be registered to vote at your current address.
You’ll need to apply in the county in which you reside, pass an exam and pay a fee. For example in Montgomery County, the Dayton Bar Association can assist you with the process (109 N. Main Street, Suite 600; 222-7902).
Once you apply and pay a $70 fee, you will receive a booklet which is a guide to the various situations where notary services are needed. The DBA schedules a test the fourth Friday of each month; they’ll also let you know the specific time and location. The test is comprised of 50 questions and a sample auto title. The guidebook isn’t very lengthy but taking the time to review and study its contents is beneficial.
After you've been notified that you’ve passed the exam, you will be commissioned as a Notary Public for five years. You are then given your first journal to record each transaction. You are responsible for purchasing your seal and name stamp (optional) though. You are also responsible for maintaining your commission and, if you move, giving notice to the new county. By the way, even if your employer has paid the exam fee and reimbursed or purchased your notary supplies, the commission and supplies belong to the individual, not the company.
I’ve been a member of the National Notary Association for some time now, too, and this group offers great support and excellent information about the notary profession. It's also a great resource for advice on how to market your notary services which may hold you over until you find that dream job. It's also another way to network with other professionals.
Jean,
ReplyDeleteThank you for the great insight! I think this may be something I take the time to do over the Thanksgiving/Christmas break. Thanks again for the useful information!
I found the information and link that you provided to the National Notary Association very helpful. I have been a Notary for years as well, but I did not know that we have our own organization. I intend to do some research and possibly join, thank you.
ReplyDeleteVery interesting. I had no idea what the process consisted of.
ReplyDeleteThis is really good information. When working in a busy law office, a notary commission is definitely a must. I notarize documents every day for clients and attorneys. It is important to keep track of your notary expiration date so that your commission does not lapse. My original commission dates back to 1979!
ReplyDeleteA Notary Public in Florida has the choice to charge or not to charge for his services, or any fees up to the maximum. On acknowledgments, depositions and jurats, a notary may receive a fee of not more than $10. Notaries charge $20 and $30 for verifying a vehicle identification number and a marriage respectively. New York notary public rates include a fee of $2 for conducting an oath or affirmation or for taking an acknowledgment or proof of execution. A notary public who charges more than the maximum declared by each state subjects himself to possible criminal action. Suspension or revocation of the notary public commission by the Secretary of State's office is also possible.
ReplyDeleteHi Jean,
ReplyDeleteMy name is Matthew Pryke and I am a Notary Public based in London, England. I would love to write an article for your site highlighting the differences between US and UK Notaries and the apostille process in the UK.
Let me know if this interests you by dropping me an email to matthew@mdpryke-notary.com. You can visit my website at www.mdpryke-notary.com.
Regards,
Matthew