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How to become a notary public in Pennsylvania. Commission term: 4 years. Verified 2026-04-02. Data verified 2026-04-02. Source: LicenseMap (getlicensemap.com).
Notary Public
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4 years
Commission Term
before renewal
3 hours
Education Required
online allowed
Yes
Exam Required
state exam
$25,000
Bond Required
surety bond
You must be a legal resident of Pennsylvania (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.
Complete 3 hours of notary education. Must complete a minimum of three hours in an approved notary education program within six months prior to applying. Online courses are accepted. Education cost: $50-$150.
First-time notaries must pass a notary examination administered by Pearson VUE. Administered by: Pearson VUE.
Submit your application to the Pennsylvania Department of State. Application fee: $42.
Obtain a $25,000 surety bond. $25,000 bond for all notaries newly appointed or reappointed on or after March 28, 2026. Existing bonds remain valid until commission expires. Bond cost: $50-$100.
Purchase an official notary stamp or seal that meets Pennsylvania requirements. Typical cost: $20-$40. Total estimated startup cost: $162-$332.
Once approved, you will receive your notary commission, valid for 4 years. You can then begin performing notarial acts in Pennsylvania. Remote online notarization (RON) is also permitted.
Minimum Age
18 years old
Residency
Must be a Pennsylvania resident or maintain a place of employment in Pennsylvania.
Citizenship
Be a citizen or permanent resident of the United States
Background Check
Not required
Not sure if you need a notary license? Check whether your state requires one.
Education
Required3 hours
Must complete a minimum of three hours in an approved notary education program within six months prior to applying.
Online courses: Allowed
Exam
RequiredFirst-time notaries must pass a notary examination administered by Pearson VUE.
Administered by: Pearson VUE
Compare top-rated notary education providers in Pennsylvania.
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Surety Bond
Required$25,000
$25,000 bond for all notaries newly appointed or reappointed on or after March 28, 2026. Existing bonds remain valid until commission expires.
Errors & Omissions Insurance
Not RequiredNot required.
Seal / Stamp
RequiredOfficial notary seal/stamp required.
| Fee | Amount |
|---|---|
Application Fee | $42 |
Bond Premium Approximate premium for $25,000 bond for 4-year term | $50-$100 |
Stamp / Seal Purchased from private vendors | $20-$40 |
Education Course Varies by approved provider | $50-$150 |
Total Estimated Cost Application + bond + education + exam + seal | $162-$332 |
Use our licensing cost calculator to estimate your total investment including education and exam fees.
Complete 3-hour approved education program
Pass notary exam (Pearson VUE, first-time only)
Obtain $25,000 surety bond (effective March 28, 2026)
Submit application with $42 fee
Take official oath, register signature, and record bond within 45 days of appointment
Purchase notary seal/stamp
Commission Term
4 years
Renewal Process
Must complete 3 hours of education. Submit new application. Exam not required for renewals.
Renewal Fee
$42
Regulatory Board
Pennsylvania authorizes remote online notarization.
Additional Requirements
Must comply with PA's RON requirements.
What Makes Pennsylvania Unique
Pennsylvania's bond is increasing to $25,000 and new seal format required effective March 28, 2026 (RULONA). Exam is only for first-time notaries.
Bond amount increasing to $25,000 effective March 28, 2026 (RULONA regulations).
New seal format required for notaries appointed/reappointed on or after March 28, 2026 — must include 7-digit commission ID number.
Exam required only for first-time notaries; renewals exempt from exam.
Education required for both new and renewing notaries.
Must complete post-appointment steps within 45 days.
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