There are many good reasons to become a public notary. Public notaries can earn extra money on top of their normal day jobs, or even turn their new notary appointment into a full time job. Besides being able to make an extra income, notaries provide an invaluable service to their clients, friends, and family. Becoming a public notary can also be a great addition to ones credentials, and resume. When competing against someone else for a job, being able to notarize documents may just give you that edge against your potential competition.

The qualifications for becoming a public notary will vary from state to state, but the guidelines remain generally the same. For starters, you will need to be 18 years of age, and a legal resident of the United States, and legal resident of the state you would like to practice in. You will also need to pass a background check, where you will be finger printed, you should not have any felony convictions, and should be considered having good moral character.

Next you will need to take a course or class from a state approved education provider. The course will cover topics such as the law, and ethics of being a notary. Once you\’ve passed the approved educational training you will need to pass a state exam.

After passing your state exam, you will then need to purchase a bond, and your supplies. Supplies consist of a journal, which you will sequentially maintain all of your notarial acts. You will also need a public seal, which can be purchased through an authorized manufacturer for sealing your notary acts.

In addition to the above mentioned, you will also need to pay filing and processing fees in most states, before taking oath and becoming appointed the position.

The NNA (National Notary Association) represents nearly 5 million notaries. Notary services are continually growing, and are in demand; because of this, typically work can be found on a daily basis. You may already have a position where notary services would be a great addition to your current job, or perhaps are already a necessity. Businesses that require notary services on a regular basis include: Banks, Mortgage Offices, Real Estate Offices, Insurance Offices, Financial Planners, Attorneys, Accountants, and many more.

If providing notary services at your current job is not an option or a good fit, you can also become a mobile notary full time or part time. Mobile notaries travel around and perform their services where needed, and for this extra convenience typically you are able to charge a premium for your services.

To become a successful notary the following things will help. Have some professional business cards made that you can pass out to clients, potential new customers, and leave at businesses that may require your services in the future. You can also advertise on free internet websites, local newspapers and magazines. Remember the best kind of business is referral business; with this being said, always be punctual, professional and strive to excel; which will ensure the success of your business.

For more specific requirements in the state you would like to become a notary go to the NNA (National Notary Association) website. You can also visit your state government website for specifics such as individual state fees, course providers, bond requirements, examinations, and fingerprinting requirements. The steps provided in this article should only be used as a general guideline for what may be needed in your pursuit to become a notary in your state of choice.

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Category: Career
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