These steps are required to become an Arizona Notary Public.
- Check that you meet all state eligibility requirements (see below).
- Complete the application online and print it out.
- Secure a $5,000 bond.
- Submit your signed Notary Application, notarized Notary Bond form and filing fee. Originals are required by the Secretary of State’s Office. Not copies.
- To ensure that your stamp is accurate, verify your name, county of residency, and dates when you receive your commission certificate.
- Purchase your Notary seal, journal, and fee schedule.
- E&O insurance is optional, but strongly recommended.
- For more guidance, it is strongly recommended that you take Notary Training (optional but highly recommended).
How to become a notary public in Arizona
These steps are required to become an Arizona Notary Public.
- Check that you meet all state eligibility requirements (see below).
- Complete the application online and print it out.
- Secure a $5,000 bond.
- Submit your signed Notary Application, notarized Notary Bond form and filing fee. Originals are required by the Secretary of State’s Office. Not copies.
- To ensure that your stamp is accurate, verify your name, county of residency, and dates when you receive your commission certificate.
- Purchase your Notary seal, journal, and fee schedule.
- E&O insurance is optional, but strongly recommended.
- For more guidance, it is strongly recommended that you take Notary Training (optional but highly recommended).
Get started now with your notary career.
You get everything you need in the complete Arizona Notary Supply Pack
This Guide: Arizona Notary ProcessAZ Notary RequirementsGeneral Notary Public Information
More Information About the Arizona Notary Process
This page contains additional information about applying for an AZ Notary Public commission.
What is the cost of becoming a Notary Public in Arizona?
To apply for an Arizona Notary Public commission, there is a $43 application fee. There may be additional fees for Notary tools, bonds and education courses depending on the vendor. County fees may apply to the filing of your bond, signature, and commission.
The cost of commissioning will vary depending on whether you’re a new or renewal Notary. Prices for supply packages vary between vendors. Experienced Notaries may require more assistance in the “how-to” department. For most new Notaries, books, training and expert assistance are essential.
What is the average time it takes to become an AZ Notary.
The Arizona Secretary of state recommends that you allow three to four weeks for processing of Notary Public commission applications. The Secretary of State’s Office reserves the right to ask for additional documentation and fees, which could make the entire process more complicated.
Additional $25 will be charged for expedited service within one to two days. To expedite your application, make sure you write “EXPEDITE” in the address. Any application that requires further review (e.g. Any application that requires further review, e.g. felony conviction, professional licensure action, or past Notary complaint cannot be expedited.
What is the average length of an Arizona Notary Commission?
A four-year term is required for an Arizona Notary Commission.
Arizona Notary Public Requirements
Below, learn how to apply for a notary commission in the Copper State.
Who can become an AZ notary?
These are the requirements for a Notary Public applying in Arizona:
- At least 18 years of age
- Learn English language skills
- You must be a U.S. citizen or legal permanent resident.
- For income tax purposes, be a legal resident in Arizona. They can claim a residence in Arizona as their primary residence on federal and state tax returns.
- You cannot be convicted for a felony without restoring civil rights, or you may not have been convicted for a lesser offense that involves moral turpitude or is incompatible with the duties as a Notary Public.
Beginning June 30, 2022 applicants will not be able to apply for a commission if Arizona is not their legal residence. A new law states that applicants who have been convicted of a felony but have had their civil rights restored may be eligible for a commission.
Are there any training requirements for AZ Notary applicants
Arizona does not require Notary training to obtain a commission. The state offers a Notary Public Reference Manual on its website for guidance.
What is the Arizona Notary exam?
Arizona does not require a state-proctored exam to become a Notary public.
What supplies are needed for notary work in Arizona?
Arizona Notaries must use a rubber stamp ink seal and journal for all notarial acts. One official Notary seal may be used at a given time (ARS 43-312.1.B).
You can make the seal in any shape you like, but no more than 2.5″ x1.5″. Round seals should not be larger than 1.5 inches in diameter. You should include the following information on your seal:
- Your name as it appears in your commission
- The words “Notary Public”
- Name of the county where you are commissioned
- The State of Arizona’s Great Seal
- Your commission ID number
- Your commission expiration date
Your stamp will no longer require your commission ID number starting June 30, 2022. Any other information requested by the Secretary should be included.
Seals should print in dark ink (black, dark blue, dark purple, dark green or dark brown). It is not acceptable to use red ink on fax or copy machines. Stamps shouldn’t bleed after or during use. This can lead to the county rejecting documents. An embosser can be used to make secondary impressions but not as the Notary’s sole seal.
In addition to a Notary seal, you’re required to get a Notary journal. You must keep the journal in paper form. It should list all notarial acts chronologically. Permanently bound journals are better than loose-leaf ones and offer greater protection.
Different tools may be suggested depending on the number and type of notarizations that are being done.
What is a Surety Bond and why do I need it?
Arizona Notaries are required to purchase a $5,000 surety bond from an authorized company to protect signers against financial damages resulting from the Notary’s negligence or misconduct. A Surety bond guarantees that the Notary will comply with all state laws. This bond protects the public, not the Notary. Any damages resulting from the bond must be paid to the Surety Company by the Notary.
Notaries can insure themselves against possible legal costs or damages by purchasing a separate, optional errors and omissions (E&O) insurance policy. Although not required by law an E&O policy covers Notaries’ legal fees and damages up the amount of the policy.
General Notary Public Information
Are you looking for more information about Arizona Notaries? Continue reading to find out more.
What state government office is responsible for Notaries?
All records of the Arizona Office of the Secretary of State’s Notary Section are kept in Phoenix, AZ. Records can be viewed by the public.
Can I become an Arizona Notary even if I’m not a U.S citizen?
Yes. To become an Arizona Notary public, you don’t have to be a U.S. citizen. However, you must be a legal resident of Arizona and satisfy all other requirements.
Where can I notarize?
Arizona’s Notary is able to perform notarial acts wherever the state borders allow.
Whom can I notarize?
As long as the request is in compliance with all applicable laws, any member of the public can sign the request. It is against the law for notaries to notarize signatures of themselves or anyone who is related by adoption or marriage. You may notarize documents in which you are receiving a material benefit.
What is the maximum amount AZ Notaries can charge for a notarial act
Arizona notaries may charge $10 for each Notary signature. While notaries are not required by law to charge fees, those who do choose to charge one must pay the same fee for each notarization. If you have to travel long distances for a notarization, you can charge a travel mileage cost. The Department of Administration determines the mileage fee through its General Accounting Office.
You must display your fee schedule if you are charging a fee for your services in a clear format.
What happens if my name or address changes?
You must inform the Secretary of state of any name or address change by submitting a Notary Public Address/Name Notification form, or reporting the change via the AZ SOS website. Failure to do so may result in a $25 civil penalty. You can avoid the penalty for changing your address by updating all addresses on the form and notifying the Secretary within 30 day of the change. For a name change, include legal documentation (marriage license, divorce decree, etc.) Include your completed form.
How do I renew my Arizona Notary Commission?
Renewing an Arizona Notary Public Commission is exactly the same process as applying for a new Notary license. It is important that you maintain the above qualifications. You cannot begin the process until your current commission expires.
How can I become an Arizona electronic notary?
The electronic notarizations are different from traditional notarizations because they use digital documents and electronic signatures. The notarial act can still be performed in person by the signer appearing before the Notary.
First, you need to be a Notary Public in Arizona. Then, you’re required to read the Electronic Notary Rules. Next, contract with a technology provider from the state’s list of approved vendors. Complete the application and indicate the vendor you intend to use.
What are the basics of remote notarization in Arizona?
Remote online notarization has been allowed in Arizona since April 10, 2020. You must have a traditional Notary Public Commission in order to apply for remote authorization. This step-by-step guide will help you become an AZ remote Notary.
Where To Work As a Notary in Arizona
You can work in many settings as a public notary in Arizona. Whether you decide to work for a law firm, real estate agency or a government job, there are many options available. You can also work for yourself as a mobile notary.
Where To Find Clients in Arizona
We work with notaries all over Arizona to help them find more business and make more money. If you would like to join our notary network, contact us today for more information. We work with notaries in all cities including:
