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How to become a notary public in Ohio. Commission term: 5 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
5 years
Commission Term
before renewal
Yes
Education Required
online allowed
Yes
Exam Required
state exam
No
Bond Required
no bond needed
You must be a legal resident of Ohio (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 complete notary education and testing from an approved vendor. Online courses are accepted. Education cost: $130 (non-attorney) or $75 (attorney).
Must pass exam from an approved vendor. Administered by: SOS-approved vendors.
Submit your application to the Ohio Secretary of State. Application fee: $15 (SOS).
Purchase an official notary stamp or seal that meets Ohio requirements. Typical cost: $20-$40. Total estimated startup cost: $165-$225.
Once approved, you will receive your notary commission, valid for 5 years. You can then begin performing notarial acts in Ohio. Remote online notarization (RON) is also permitted.
Minimum Age
18 years old
Residency
Must be an Ohio resident, or a non-resident attorney licensed in Ohio with principal place of practice in Ohio.
Citizenship
U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident
Background Check
Must order an Ohio criminal records check report.
Not sure if you need a notary license? Check whether your state requires one.
Education
RequiredMust complete notary education and testing from an approved vendor.
Online courses: Allowed
Exam
RequiredMust pass exam from an approved vendor.
Administered by: SOS-approved vendors
Browse Notary Public study materials on Amazon →(affiliate link)
Surety Bond
Not RequiredNo bond required for standard notary commission. $25,000 bond required only for notarizing electronic estate planning documents.
Errors & Omissions Insurance
Not RequiredNot required for standard commission. $25,000 E&O required for electronic estate planning documents.
Seal / Stamp
RequiredOfficial notary stamp required.
| Fee | Amount |
|---|---|
Application Fee | $15 (SOS) |
Bond Premium No bond required for standard commission | N/A |
Stamp / Seal Purchased from private vendors | $20-$40 |
Education Course Fee to SOS-approved education/testing vendor | $130 (non-attorney) or $75 (attorney) |
Total Estimated Cost Application + education/testing + criminal check + seal | $165-$225 |
Use our licensing cost calculator to estimate your total investment including education and exam fees.
Order Ohio criminal records check
Complete notary education from approved vendor ($130 non-attorney, $75 attorney)
Pass the notary exam
Submit application with $15 fee to SOS
Receive commission
Purchase notary stamp
Commission Term
5 years
Renewal Process
Submit renewal application within 3-month window before expiration. Complete education and testing again.
Renewal Fee
$15 (SOS) + education/testing fees
Regulatory Board
Ohio authorizes online notarization. Online notary may charge up to $30 per online notarization plus $10 technology fee.
Additional Requirements
Additional $20 authorization fee. Must comply with Ohio's online notarization requirements.
What Makes Ohio Unique
Ohio requires a criminal records check and education from approved vendors. No bond for standard commission.
Ohio requires a criminal records check.
Education costs vary: $130 for non-attorneys, $75 for attorneys.
5-year commission term.
No bond for standard commission; $25,000 bond + $25,000 E&O only for electronic estate planning.
Notary requirements in nearby states
Other professional licenses in Ohio
See how Ohio compares: Notary License Fees by State — Cheapest to Most Expensive →
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Moving to Ohio? Use our free Transfer Tool to see what you need →
Already licensed elsewhere? See how to transfer your Notary license to Ohio →
Transfer your Notary license from Ohio to: Indiana → | Kentucky → | Michigan → | Pennsylvania → | West Virginia →
Study guides and practice tests for the notary public exam.
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