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How to become a notary public in New York. Commission term: 4 years. Verified 2026-04-02. Data verified 2026-04-02. Source: LicenseMap (getlicensemap.com).
Notary Public
Most information on this page has been verified.
83% of data points are verified against official sources. 2 fields based on preliminary research. We recommend confirming details with your state's licensing authority. See sources below · Report incorrect data
4 years
Commission Term
before renewal
No
Education Required
no course needed
Yes
Exam Required
70%
No
Bond Required
no bond needed
You must be a legal resident of New York (or maintain a place of business there), be at least 18 years old, and be able to read and write English. You cannot have a disqualifying criminal record.
Must pass the New York notary public exam. $15 exam fee. Passing score: 70%. Administered by: New York Department of State, Division of Licensing Services.
Submit your application to the New York Department of State, Division of Licensing Services. Application fee: $60 - Initial Application; $15 - Written Exam.
Purchase an official notary stamp or seal that meets New York requirements. Typical cost: $20-$40. Total estimated startup cost: $95-$115.
Once approved, you will receive your notary commission, valid for 4 years. You can then begin performing notarial acts in New York. Remote online notarization (RON) is also permitted.
Minimum Age
18 years old
Residency
Be a resident of New York State or have an office or place of business in New York State.
Citizenship
No specific citizenship requirement; must be of good moral character
Background Check
Not required
Not sure if you need a notary license? Check whether your state requires one.
Education
Not RequiredNo mandatory education course, but exam preparation courses are widely available.
Exam
RequiredMust pass the New York notary public exam. $15 exam fee.
Passing score: 70%
Administered by: New York Department of State, Division of Licensing Services
Browse Notary Public study materials on Amazon →(affiliate link)
Surety Bond
Not RequiredNo bond required in New York.
Errors & Omissions Insurance
Not RequiredNot required. Optional E&O insurance is personal choice.
Seal / Stamp
Not RequiredNot required by law as of January 2023. Many notaries still use a stamp for clarity, but it is not legally mandated.
| Fee | Amount |
|---|---|
Application Fee | $60 - Initial Application; $15 - Written Exam |
Bond Premium No bond required | N/A |
Stamp / Seal Purchased from private vendors | $20-$40 |
Total Estimated Cost Exam + commission + seal | $95-$115 |
Use our licensing cost calculator to estimate your total investment including education and exam fees.
Register for and pass the notary public exam ($15)
Submit application with sworn oath and $60 fee
Apply through New York Business Express portal
Receive commission
Optionally purchase notary stamp (not legally required as of January 2023)
Commission Term
4 years
Renewal Process
Submit renewal application. Exam may be waived for timely renewals.
Renewal Fee
$60
Regulatory Board
New York authorizes electronic notarization.
Additional Requirements
Must apply for electronic notary commission. Additional fees apply.
What Makes New York Unique
New York requires an exam but no education. No bond or seal required. Exam may be waived for timely renewals.
New York requires an exam but no mandatory education.
No bond required.
Seal/stamp not required by law as of January 2023.
Application includes a sworn oath of office that must be notarized.
Exam may be waived for timely renewals.
Notary requirements in nearby states
| State | Timeline | |
|---|---|---|
| New York (you) | 4–17 wks | |
| Connecticut | 4–17 wks | → |
| Massachusetts | 4–17 wks | → |
| New Jersey | 4–17 wks | → |
| Pennsylvania | 4–17 wks | → |
Other professional licenses in New York
See how New York compares: Notary License Fees by State — Cheapest to Most Expensive →
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Compare approved notary courses available in New York. Prices and availability verified 2026.
National Notary Association
Notary education course covering New York notary public duties, proper procedures, and exam preparation for the NY notary exam.
4 hours · Self-paced, complete in 1-2 days
Best for: New notaries wanting the industry standard
We may earn a commission if you enroll through links on our site. This does not affect our recommendations or the price you pay.
Moving to New York? Use our free Transfer Tool to see what you need →
Already licensed elsewhere? See how to transfer your Notary license to New York →
Transfer your Notary license from New York to: Connecticut → | Massachusetts → | New Jersey → | Pennsylvania → | Vermont →
Study guides and practice tests for the notary public exam.
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