How To become Notary Public in Iowa

by oziel in Uncategorized

Iowa Notary Process

Are you interested in becoming a Iowa notary? Are you looking to make extra money, start your own Iowa notary company, add a notary title on your resume, and help people in your local community? Iowa appoints notaries as impartial witnesses and impartial witnesses for document signing. Iowa has no formal requirements for becoming a notary. You can apply to be an Iowa notary if you meet the eligibility criteria. Since 1994, the American Association of Notaries assists individuals in becoming notaries.

This guide will help to understand:

  1. Iowa notary public: Who can apply?
  2. How to become an Iowa notary
  3. Iowa basic notarial duties

What qualifications are required to become an Iowa notary public?

To become an Iowa notary public, a notary applicant must meet the following requirements:  

  1. At least 18 years old
  2. You must be a citizen of the United States or a permanent legal resident.
  3. Iowa residents or those who have Iowa-based employment or practice are eligible.
  4. Learn English to read and write.
  5. You are not disqualified from receiving a commission under Section 9B.23.

How do you become an Iowa notary public?

To become an Iowa notary public, you must:   

  1. You must meet the eligibility requirements outlined in the previous section.
  2. Completion of a mandatory training course. Submit proof to your application that you have completed this training course.
  3. Fill out and submit to the Secretary of State a Notary Public Appointment Form.
  4. The $30 application fee must be paid.
  5. As part of your application for appointment, take an oath to office.

Notice:An electronic record checkbox is included in the application of appointment. This box allows applicants to indicate whether they will be using electronic records for notarial purposes. If yes, please identify the tamper-proof technology you plan to use. You can either attend an in-person seminar, or take an online course to fulfill this education requirement. 

Is it possible for a non-resident to become a Iowa notary?

Yes. Yes. A resident of a bordering state may apply for Iowa notary public status (IC SS9B.21[5]). You must be a non-resident:

  1. Iowa is a great place to work or practice.
  2. You must meet the same requirements as Iowa residents.
  3. Fill out and submit an Application for Appointment As Notary Public Form. Follow the same appointment process as Iowa residents.
  4. Maintain a permanent place of employment in Iowa.
  5. If you lose your notary public license or are fired, you must relinquish it.

Notice:A notary public who is not a resident of Iowa loses his or her place of practice or employment within Iowa and the commission ceases. A notarial commission for a state bordering Iowa is valid for one year.

What is the cost of becoming an Iowa notary?

Iowa notary public applicants may be required to pay: (1) $30 for processing an application to become or renew their notary public appointment; (2) an official stamp; (3) an initial mandatory training course that covers the functions and duties and is offered by an accredited education provider. (4) An additional online training course can also be offered by approved education providers if the notary wants to perform remote notarial acts. (5) A notary bond to protect the public against the notary’s intentional or unintentional negligence or misconduct; (6) E&O policy to cover if necessary; and (7) to keep track of all notary actions and to ensure the notary.

How do I renew my Iowa notary commission?

A Iowa notary public can renew his or her current commission 60 days before expiration by submitting a request for reappointment to the Secretary of State. The process for applying for reappointment is identical to the original application for appointment, which requires payment of the $30 application fee. Two months before the expiration of their commissions, the Secretary of State will mail Iowa notaries a blank request for reappointment. Iowa notaries can renew their notary public positions using the Secretary’s online Notary Renewal System. Only new applicants for notary public positions are required to complete the initial training course. If a notary public is seeking to perform notarial acts for remote individuals and has completed all of the required statutory training courses, he or she must complete an online updated training course within six months of the deadline. The Secretary of State must be satisfied that the training course was successfully completed. A notary public may use the online Notary Renewal system to submit an application for reappointment as a notary public.

Is there any exam or notary course required to be an Iowa notary public?

Yes. All applicants for a notary public commission must complete an initial training course. This requirement became effective July 1, 2020. An applicant must successfully complete an initial training course that the Secretary of State has approved concerning the functions and duties of notary public within the six-month period prior to the submission or an Application for Appointment. Applicants must provide satisfactory evidence to the Secretary of State that they have completed the initial training course as required by Iowa Administrative Code paragraph 721-43.5(3)(a). An individual can either attend an in-person seminar, or take an online training course to fulfill this education requirement.

If a notary public wishes to perform notarial acts on behalf of remote individuals under Iowa Code Section 9B.14A, he or she must complete within six months a training course that has been approved by the Secretary of State. The course must cover the requirements and methods of performing notarial acts on behalf of remotely located persons. This training is an addition to the required initial training course as per the Iowa Administrative Code, paragraph 721-43.5(3)(b).

A notary public applicant who is currently a holder of a notary commission and wishes to continue performing remote notarial acts must, within six months of the deadline for reappointment application, complete a satisfactory update course approved and certified by the Secretary. The Secretary of State will also require the applicant to provide satisfactory evidence to the Secretary that they have completed the course in accordance with paragraph 721-43.5(3)(c).

How do you become an Iowa electronic notary public in Iowa?

Iowa’s Revised Uniform Law on Notarial Acts (2012) authorized electronic signatures to be used by Iowa notaries public. Iowa also adopted the Uniform Electronic Transactions Act. This law, which includes the provisions on acknowledgment and notarization, authorizes electronic signatures to be used by Iowa notaries. Section 554D.113 says, “If a law requires that a signature or recording be notarized or acknowledged, verified or made under oath,” and the Uniform Electronic Transactions Act, which includes the provision on notarization and acknowledgment, required that the document signer personally appear in front of the notary public, be close enough to communicate with him or her, and provide identification credentials. The Revised Uniform Law on Notarial Acts (2018) was enacted in Iowa Senate Bill 445, 2019 Iowa Acts Chapter 44, and codified under Title 1, Chapter 9B, Iowa Code. It allows Iowa notaries public, who are located in Iowa, to perform notarial acts for remote individuals. The Iowa Secretary of State published the final administrative rules for implementing the remote online notarization provisions in the Revised Uniform Law on Notarial Acts (2018).

You must be a notary public before you can perform an initial notarial act in respect to an electronic document.

  1. Notify the Secretary to State that you will be performing notarial actions with respect to electronic records.
  2. Identify the tamper evident technology that you plan to use in order to perform notarial acts in relation to electronic records. It must be consistent with the standards set by the Secretary.

The Revised Uniform Law on Notarial Acts (2018), which became effective July 1, 2020, allows a notary public to perform notarial acts using communication technology for a remote individual. This allows notaries and remote individuals to communicate simultaneously by sight or sound. It is important to note that the individual is not physically present to the notary who performs the act. According to the Secretary of State, a notarized document will be deemed in compliance with Iowa Code Chapter 9B’s requirements. This is when the notary public attaches an electronically notarial certificate that meets Iowa Code Section 9B.15[3] or (2) the document is submitted to and accepted by the Iowa judicial branches electronic document management system. A notary public can choose one or more tamper evident technologies to perform notarial actions with respect to electronic records. (IC 9B.20). A person cannot require a notary public perform a notarial function with respect to electronic records using a technology the notary has not chosen. Incorrect performance of an electronic notarial act can result in the same penalties, liability and remedies as a traditional notary public.

Can I do remote (online notarizations) in Iowa?

Yes. Yes. The Iowa Secretary of State has also published final administrative rules that implement and conform to the provisions of the Iowa Statutes regarding the execution of notarial acts for remote individuals using audio and video communication technology that meets the Secretary of the State’s standards. The new law clarifies the requirement that a notarial document for a remote individual must be signed by the principal signer in accordance with any Iowa law. All provisions of Iowa Administrative Code 721-43, Iowa Code chapter 9B and all provisions of Section 6 of Senate File 475, which were passed in 2019, must be followed by remote notarial acts. The new provisions for remote online notarization clarify that there is no conflict between the remote internet notarization laws or any other Iowa law.

How do you become an Iowa remote notary public online?

If a notary public wishes to perform notarial acts on behalf of remote individuals under Iowa Code Section 9B.14A, he or she must complete within six months a training course that has been approved by the Secretary of State. The course will cover the requirements and methods of performing notarial acts on behalf of remotely located persons. This training is required in addition to the mandatory initial training course all applicants for notary public positions must complete. The Secretary of State must be satisfied that the first-time applicant has successfully completed the mandatory training course as required by Iowa Administrative Code paragraph 721-43.5(3)(a).

The Secretary of State must be notified by the notary public before a remote notary public can perform their initial remote online notarization. This is the process:

  1. The notary public fills out and submits to the Secretary of States an additional application. This includes information that indicates the applicant meets the requirements for additional training and technology under Iowa Code Section 9B.14A.14A.14A.14A.14A. The new adopted rules and any additional information required by the Secretary of the State.
  2. The approval to perform notarial acts remotely located individuals will expire at the same time as the individual’s notary Public commission.
  3. Two months before the expiration date, the Secretary of State will notify and submit to the notary a request for reapproval.
  4. If a notary holds a notary public license and wishes to continue to perform notarial acts for remote individuals, he or she must complete an approved online course that has been updated by the Secretary within six months prior to the deadline for reapplying for reappointment. The Secretary of State will require satisfactory proof of completion.
  5. The notary can simultaneously submit the applications for reappointment or reapproval.
  6. Notary must notify the Secretary of State that he/she will be performing notarial acts in respect to remote individuals and identify the technologies he/she intends to use.
  7. The notary cannot use any technology, communication technology included, that is not in compliance with the Secretary of State’s standards as set out by rule.

Iowa Code 9B.14A outlines some statutory requirements that require a notary public to use remote online notarization services. These services must have the identity-proofing technology and e-signing capability and the storage of notarial act records that a public will need. It is crucial to verify the identity of remote individuals. It is crucial that notaries public ensure the video resolution is high enough to clearly see identity-proofing documents and the audio clarity is clear enough to hear what the remote individual is saying. A list of the remote notarization technology providers approved by the Iowa Secretary of State for use in Iowa appears on the Secretary of State’s website at: https://sos.iowa.gov/remotenotary. You can also complete the registration form and submit it on the website of the Secretary of State.

What is the term of Iowa’s notary public commission?

A resident of Iowa has a three-year commission term for an Iowa notary public. It begins on the date indicated in the notary commission (IC9B.21[6]). A resident of an Iowa state bordering Iowa whose practice or place of employment is in Iowa is eligible for the one-year commission term. The commission term for a member or deputy member of the General Assembly is the same as the member’s term.

Does Iowa require a notary bond to become an Iowa notary?

No. No. Although a notary bond does not have to be purchased by Iowa notaries public, they may choose to purchase one in the event that the public suffers financial losses due notary negligence or official misconduct. The surety company will pay the assessed damages, up to the amount chosen by the notary. Otherwise, the company will ask for reimbursement from the public for all claims paid. Although it is impossible to stop a civil lawsuit from happening, a notary public can limit its effect by placing a surety bond.

What insurance do I need for Iowa notary errors or omissions?

Iowa does not require an errors and omissions policy. For their protection against liability, the American Association of Notaries strongly suggests that Iowa notaries purchase an errors and omissions policy. The purpose of errors and omissions insurance protects notaries against liability for notarial mistakes, omissions or losses that may result in financial loss or damage to clients or the public. E&O policies typically cover legal fees and damages depending on what coverage an Iowa notary chooses.

Where can I do notarial acts here in Iowa?

A Iowa notary public is subject to statewide jurisdiction. He or she may perform notarial acts in any part of Iowa. A notary public in Iowa cannot perform notarial acts beyond the state of Iowa.

Who appoints Iowa public notaries?

The Iowa Secretary of State receives applications to be reappointed or appointed for notaries public, remote notaries, and electronic notaries. She also administers the commissioning process. The following information can be used to contact the Iowa Secretary-of-State:

Iowa Secretary of State

Notary Division

Lucas Building, 1st Floor

321 E. 12th Street

Des Moines, IA 55319

(515) 281-5204

Fax: (515-242-5953

What do I need to buy a Iowa notary stamp?

Yes. Iowa’s notary laws require that all public notaries authenticate all notarial acts using an official stamp (ICSS9B.17). Section 9B.17 contains the required information for all official stamps. This section does not contain the legal specifications for the layout, ink color or shape of a stamp.

Essential Elements: The notary public must provide and maintain an official stamp that clearly shows, when attached to a document, the following elements.

  1. The name of the notary public, as it appears in the commission certificate.
  2. The words “Notarial seal”
  3. The word “Iowa”
  4. Followed by the number of the commission, you will see the words “Commission Number”.
  5. The words “My Commission Expires”, followed by either the expiration date of the commission or a blank line for the expiration date.

Notice:A notary public’s official stamp must be able to be copied along with the record it is attached or logically associated with. Notary publics must immediately notify the Secretary of States if their official stamp is lost, stolen. The security of the notary public’s stamping device is the responsibility of the notary public. They must ensure that the device is not misused by anyone else.

Iowa requires a notary journal.

No. No. Iowa law doesn’t require that an Iowa notary public record every notarial act performed in a journal. The American Association of Notaries strongly recommends that Iowa notaries keep a record of all notarial acts performed in a permanent, bound journal with numbered pages. This will protect against claims of fraud and official misconduct. Visit us https://publicnotary.services/

What is the Iowa notary’s fee for performing notarial acts

Iowa’s notary statute doesn’t set a maximum amount that an Iowa notary public can charge for notarial acts. However, Iowa notaries may charge reasonable fees for their notarial services.

What notarial acts is an Iowa notary public allowed to perform?

The following notarial acts can be performed by an Iowa notary public:

  • Recognize others
  • Affirm and administer oaths
  • Verify the affirmation or oath by taking a verification
  • Attest or witness signatures
  • Attest or certify a copy
  • Notice protests against negotiable instrument

How can I change my Iowa address for my notary commission?

A Iowa notary public must notify the Secretary-of-State of any changes to the information in his or her application to be a notary public. The Secretary-of State has prescribed a form. Non-resident notary publics in Iowa must notify the Secretary if there are any changes to the information in their application for appointment. Also, any changes in the notary’s practice or place of employment in Iowa must be notified to the Secretary of State within thirty days. To download the Notary Public Change/Amendment to Application form, visit the Secretary of State website at: https://sos.iowa.gov/business/FormsAndFees.html#NC9B

What do I need to do to update my Iowa notary commission name?

A Iowa notary public whose legal name has changed during the term for his or her notarial license is required to fill out and submit a Notary Public Change/Amendment To Application form to the Secretary Of State as soon as possible after the name change. These notaries can use their new names for notarial acts or continue to notarize under the commissioned names until the end of their terms. Sometimes, a third party may request certification of a commission. A notary can’t certify a commission if his or her name has changed. A name change is free of charge.

Where To Work As a Notary in Iowa

You can work in many settings as a public notary in Iowa. 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 Iowa

We work with notaries all over Iowa 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:

  1. Des Moines
  2. Cedar Rapids
  3. Davenport
  4. Sioux
  5. Waterloo
  6. Iowa
  7. Council Bluffs
  8. Ames
  9. Dubuque
  10. West Des Moines
  11. Ankeny
  12. Urbandale
  13. Cedar Falls
  14. Marion
  15. Bettendorf
  16. Mason
  17. Marshalltown
  18. Clinton
  19. Burlington
  20. Fort Dodge

Notary Public FAQs

What are the basic requirements to become a Notary Public in Iowa? 

To become a Notary Public in Iowa, you must meet specific eligibility criteria. You must be at least 18 years old, reside in the state of Iowa, be a United States citizen or legal permanent resident, and have no felony convictions. Additionally, you should be able to read and write in English. Our service can guide you through the application process and ensure you meet all the requirements.

How do I apply to become a Notary Public in Iowa? 

Applying to become a Notary Public in Iowa involves several steps. You’ll need to complete an application, pay the required fee, obtain a surety bond, and take an oath of office. Our service simplifies the process, providing step-by-step instructions and helping you with the necessary paperwork to ensure a smooth application process.

Do I need any training or education to become a Notary Public in Iowa? 

In Iowa, notary education is not required by law, but it is highly recommended. Completing a notary training course can help you better understand your duties and responsibilities as a Notary Public. Our service can connect you with available training options and resources to help you become a knowledgeable and skilled Notary Public in Iowa.