To become an Arizona Notary, you must complete the following steps:
- Meet the state's eligibility requirements.
- Complete the application online and print it out.
- Get a $5,000 surety bond.
- Submit your signed application, notarized bond form and filing fee.
- Buy your Notary seal, journal and fee schedule.
About the Arizona Notary Process
An Arizona Notary Public commission lasts for four years. To continue notarizing documents, Notaries must renew their commission.
Cost to Become a Notary in AZ
The cost to become a Notary in Arizona ranges between $155 - $180, depending on where you purchase your Notary supplies.
| Expense |
Cost |
| Application filing fee |
$43 |
| $5,000 surety bond |
$25 |
| Bond form notarization fee |
$10 |
| Notary journal |
$30 - $55 |
| Notary seal |
$30 |
| Fee schedule |
$17 |
| Total Cost |
$155 - $180 |
Commission Processing Time
It can take up to four weeks to get your Notary Public commission in Arizona once you submit your application.
The Arizona Secretary of State offers an expedited service of one to two business days for an additional $25. Write "EXPEDITE" on your envelope to have your application processed promptly.
Any application requiring further review, including a felony conviction, professional license action or past Notary complaint, cannot be expedited.
Arizona Notary Public Requirements
Eligibility
A Notary Public applicant in Arizona must meet the following requirements:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Be able to read and write English
- Be a citizen or legal permanent resident of the U.S.
- Be a legal resident of Arizona
- Not be convicted of a felony unless civil rights have been restored
Application
Complete the application and print it out. Submit the original notarized bond form and filing fee.
Tip: When you receive your commission certificate, check your name, county of residence and commission dates to ensure your stamp is made accurately.
Notary Supplies
Notaries in Arizona are required to use a Notary seal stamp, journal and fee schedule. You may not possess more than one official Notary seal at a time (ARS 41-321.B).
The seal can be in any shape no larger than 2.5" x 1.5". Round seals must be no larger than 1.5" in diameter. The following information should be on the seal:
- Your name as it appears on your commission
- The words "Notary Public"
- The name of the county in which you're commissioned
- The Great Seal of the State of Arizona
- Your commission ID number
- Your commission expiration date
In addition to a Notary seal, you must get a Notary journal. The journal must be in a paper format and list the notarial acts in chronological order.
What color ink should Notaries in Arizona use?
Seals should print in dark ink (black, dark blue, dark purple, dark green or dark brown). Red ink or ink not viewable on all copy or fax machines is unacceptable.
An embosser may be used as a secondary impression but cannot serve as the Notary's only seal.
Surety Bond
Arizona Notaries must purchase a $5,000 surety bond to protect signers against financial damages resulting from the Notary's negligence or misconduct.
Arizona Notary Public FAQs
Have more questions about being a Notary in Arizona? Read on for your answers.
Which state government office handles Notaries?
The Arizona Office of the Secretary of State, Notary Section, located in Phoenix, AZ, holds all records of Notaries Public.
Secretary of State
1700 W. Washington Street, Fl. 7
Phoenix, AZ 85007-2808
May I become an Arizona Notary if I am not a U.S. citizen?
Yes. You do not have to be a U.S. citizen to become an Arizona Notary Public. You must, however, be a legal resident of the state and meet all other application requirements.
Is training required for AZ Notary applicants?
Arizona does not require training prior to getting a Notary commission. The state offers a Notary Public Reference Manual on its website for guidance.
Do I need to take an Arizona Notary exam?
There is no state-proctored exam required to become a Notary Public in Arizona.
Is E&O insurance required?
Notaries can insure themselves against possible legal costs or damages by purchasing a separate, optional errors and omissions (E&O) insurance policy. Though not required by law, an E&O policy covers a Notary's legal fees and damages up to the amount of the policy.
Where will I be able to notarize?
An Arizona Notary can perform notarial acts anywhere within the state's borders.
Who can I notarize for?
Any member of the public, as long as the request meets all statutory requirements for notarization. Notaries are prohibited from notarizing their own signatures and for anyone related to them by marriage or adoption.
In addition, you may not notarize a document in which you will receive a direct material benefit.
How much can AZ Notaries charge per notarial act?
In Arizona, Notaries can charge up to $10 per Notary signature. Notaries are not required to charge a fee, but those who choose to do so must use that same fee for each notarization.
You may charge a travel mileage fee if you travel a distance to perform a notarization. The Department of Administration determines the mileage fee through its General Accounting Office.
If you charge a fee for your services, you must post your fee schedule in a specific format and in a conspicuous location.
What happens if I change my address or name?
You must notify the Secretary of State of any address or name change by submitting a completed Notary Public Address/Name Change Notification form or reporting the change on the AZ SOS website. Failure to do so may result in a $25 civil penalty.
To avoid paying the penalty for an address change, update all of your addresses in the form and notify the Secretary within 30 days of the change. For a name change, include legal documentation (marriage license, divorce decree, etc.) with your form.
What is the process for renewing my commission as an Arizona Notary?
The process to renew an Arizona Notary Public commission is the same as the new Notary application process.
You must continue to meet the qualifications listed above. The earliest you may renew your commission is 60 days before your current commission expires.
How do I become an electronic Notary in Arizona?
Electronic notarizations differ from traditional notarizations in that they involve digital documents and electronic signatures. The notarial act is still performed in person with the signer personally appearing before the Notary.
To become an eNotary in Arizona, you must first hold an active commission as a traditional Notary Public. Then, you’re required to read the Electronic Notary Rules. Next, contract with a technology provider from the state’s list of approved vendors. Complete the application and indicate the vendor you intend to use.
How can I become a remote online Notary in Arizona?
To apply for your remote authorization, you must first have a traditional Notary Public commission. This step-by-step guide will help you become an AZ remote Notary.
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Last updated: Jul 2, 2024