Becoming a notary public is an excellent way to enhance your professional skills and potentially earn extra income. However, the cost of becoming a notary can vary significantly depending on your state and the specific requirements involved. Generally, the process includes expenses for education, exams, application fees, bonds, and necessary supplies. Understanding these costs upfront can help you budget accordingly and make an informed decision about pursuing this career path.
The total cost to become a notary typically ranges from $50 to $500, depending on your location and the specific requirements of your state. Some states have more stringent requirements and higher associated costs, while others may offer a more streamlined and affordable process. It’s important to research your state’s specific requirements and factor in all potential expenses before embarking on your journey to become a notary.
| Expense Category | Typical Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Application Fee | $20 – $120 |
| Education/Training | $30 – $200 |
| Exam Fee | $15 – $100 |
| Notary Bond | $40 – $100 |
| Notary Supplies | $50 – $200 |
Application and Licensing Fees
The first cost you’ll encounter when becoming a notary is the application fee. This fee covers the processing of your application and the issuance of your notary commission. The amount varies widely from state to state, typically ranging from $20 to $120. For example, in California, the application fee is $40, while in Florida, it’s $39. Some states may have additional fees associated with the application process, such as fingerprinting or background check fees.
It’s important to note that these fees are generally non-refundable, even if your application is denied. Therefore, it’s crucial to ensure that you meet all the qualifications before submitting your application and paying the fee. Some states also require notaries to renew their commission periodically, which may involve additional fees. For instance, in Texas, notaries must renew their commission every four years for a fee of $21.
When budgeting for your notary career, consider not only the initial application fee but also any potential renewal fees you may encounter in the future. This forward-thinking approach will help you plan for the long-term costs associated with maintaining your notary commission.
Education and Training Costs
Many states require aspiring notaries to complete a notary education course before applying for their commission. The cost of these courses can vary significantly, typically ranging from $30 to $200. Some states offer free online courses, while others may require more extensive training programs that come with higher price tags.
For example, California requires all new notaries to complete a six-hour approved course, which can cost anywhere from $35 to $179, depending on the provider and whether the course is taken online or in person. On the other hand, states like Florida require a three-hour course that typically costs between $20 and $50.
When considering education costs, it’s important to factor in not only the price of the course but also any associated materials or textbooks you may need to purchase. Some courses include all necessary materials in their fee, while others may require additional purchases.
Additionally, some states require notaries to complete continuing education courses to maintain their commission. While these courses are typically less expensive than the initial training, they represent an ongoing cost that should be factored into your budget. For instance, in North Carolina, notaries must complete a three-hour refresher course every five years, which can cost around $50.
Exam Fees and Preparation
After completing the required education, many states require aspiring notaries to pass an exam to demonstrate their knowledge of notarial laws and procedures. The cost of this exam can range from $15 to $100, depending on the state. For example, the notary exam fee in New York is $15, while in California, it’s $40.
In addition to the exam fee itself, you may want to consider the cost of exam preparation materials. While not always necessary, especially if you’ve completed a comprehensive education course, some aspiring notaries choose to purchase study guides or practice exams to increase their chances of passing on the first attempt. These materials can range from $20 to $50 or more, depending on their comprehensiveness.
It’s worth noting that some states, such as Florida, include the exam as part of their required education course, potentially saving you money by combining these costs. However, other states may require you to take the exam separately, which could involve additional fees for scheduling and administration.
If you don’t pass the exam on your first attempt, you may need to pay to retake it. The cost for retaking the exam varies by state but is often similar to the initial exam fee. To avoid these additional costs, it’s advisable to thoroughly prepare for the exam using your course materials and any additional study resources you find helpful.
Notary Bond and Insurance Costs
Many states require notaries to obtain a surety bond before they can be commissioned. This bond serves as a form of financial protection for the public in case a notary makes a mistake that causes financial harm. The cost of a notary bond typically ranges from $40 to $100 for a four-year term, although the exact amount can vary based on the bond amount required by your state.
For example, California requires a $15,000 bond, which typically costs around $38 for a four-year term. Texas, on the other hand, requires a $10,000 bond, which usually costs about $50 for a four-year term. It’s important to note that while you pay for the bond, it doesn’t protect you personally – it protects the public from your potential errors.
In addition to the required bond, many notaries choose to purchase Errors and Omissions (E&O) insurance. While not typically mandatory, E&O insurance can provide personal protection against lawsuits resulting from unintentional mistakes in your notarial acts. The cost of E&O insurance can range from $30 to $200 per year, depending on the coverage amount and your state.
When considering whether to purchase E&O insurance, weigh the potential risks of your notary practice against the cost of the insurance. If you plan to perform a high volume of notarizations or deal with high-value documents, the added protection may be worth the investment.
Notary Supplies and Equipment
Once you’ve been commissioned as a notary, you’ll need to purchase certain supplies to perform your duties. These typically include a notary seal or stamp, a notary journal, and potentially other items like a certificate pad or fingerprint pad. The cost of these supplies can range from $50 to $200 or more, depending on the quality and quantity of items you choose.
The notary seal or stamp is a crucial tool for authenticating documents. Prices for seals or stamps typically range from $15 to $50, depending on the type (embosser or inked stamp) and quality. Some states have specific requirements for the type of seal you must use, so be sure to check your state’s regulations before making a purchase.
A notary journal, used to record all notarial acts, is required in many states and recommended in others. Journals typically cost between $10 and $30. Some notaries prefer to use electronic journals, which may have higher upfront costs but can offer conveniences like automatic backups and easier searching.
Additional supplies you might need include:
- Certificate pads ($10 – $20)
- Fingerprint pads ($5 – $15)
- Record book cover ($10 – $30)
- Notary signage ($20 – $50)
When budgeting for supplies, consider not only the initial purchase but also the ongoing cost of replacing items as they wear out or are used up. For example, you may need to replace your stamp’s ink pad or purchase new certificate pads periodically.
FAQs About How Much Does It Cost To Become A Notary
- What is the average total cost to become a notary?
The average total cost typically ranges from $100 to $300, but can vary significantly based on state requirements and optional expenses. - Are there any ongoing costs after becoming a notary?
Yes, ongoing costs may include commission renewal fees, continuing education, and replenishing supplies like stamps and journals. - Can I deduct notary expenses on my taxes?
Many notary expenses can be tax-deductible if you’re operating as a business. Consult with a tax professional for specific advice. - Is it cheaper to become an online notary?
Online notary costs are often similar to traditional notary costs, but may include additional expenses for technology and specialized training. - How long does a notary commission last?
Notary commissions typically last 4-5 years, depending on the state. Renewal costs should be factored into long-term budgeting.