Notary Public License Guide 2026
Notary Public licensing in 2026 is regulated state-by-state: verified pre-license education ranges from 0–6 hours, the exam is most commonly administered by State, and published first-attempt pass rates are not consistently published.
State-appointed witness for document signings. Simple requirements — no formal education in most states.
National overview — Notary at a glance
| States with verified data | 51 of 51 |
| Pre-license education | 0–6 hrs |
| Most common exam vendor | State |
| Exam passing score | varies by state |
| National pass-rate reference | ~85% (industry reference) |
| Published state pass rates | not published |
| Exam fee | varies by state |
| Application fee | $20–60 |
| Common renewal cycle | every 4 years |
| Background check | varies by state |
State-by-state essentials (top verified states)
California
Full guide ↗- Education
- 6 hrs
- Exam vendor
- State
- Application fee
- $20
- Renewal
- 4 yrs
New York
Full guide ↗- Education
- 3 hrs
- Exam vendor
- State
- Application fee
- $60
- Renewal
- 4 yrs
Massachusetts
Full guide ↗- Education
- 0 hrs
- Application fee
- $60
- Renewal
- 7 yrs
How to get a Notary license — step by step
- 1Meet the basic requirements
Minimum age is 18 in every state with a published figure.
- 2Complete pre-license education
Approved training hours run from 0–6 hours across verified states. Choose a state-approved program; your school reports completion to the licensing authority.
- 3Register and pass the exam
The exam is most often administered by State. Schedule through the vendor portal after your education is reported.
- 4Pay fees and submit your application
Expect an exam fee of varies by state and an application fee of $20–60. Submit any required background check results with your application.
- 5Maintain your license
The most common renewal cycle is every 4 years. Track continuing-education deadlines so your license never lapses.
Frequently asked questions
How many hours of education do I need to become a Notary?
Verified requirements range from 0–6 hours across states. Check your state's exact figure before enrolling — hours are set by each state board.
How hard is the Notary Public exam?
The national pass-rate reference is ~85%. Most states do not publish first-attempt pass rates — check your state board.
What does a Notary license cost?
Exam fee schedules vary by state and application fees run $20–60, not counting education or fingerprinting.
Who administers the Notary Public exam?
The most common vendors are State (9 states). Your state chooses one vendor — confirm on your state's licensing page.
Can I transfer my Notary license to another state?
Reciprocity for Notary licenses is decided state-by-state and is not uniformly published. Contact both state boards before moving to confirm whether your license transfers or requires an exam.
Dig deeper into Notary licensing
This guide is informational and not legal advice. Requirements change frequently — verify all figures with your state licensing board (data retrieved 2026-08-20).