What is the process for becoming a notary in ohio?
Step 1
Meet the state's requirements:
- At least 18 years old
- Legal Ohio resident
- No disqualifying criminal convictions
Step 2
Get a Bureau of Criminal Investigation (BCI) background check.
Read our step-by-step guide on obtaining your BCI Background Check for details on the process.
Step 3
Take our online notary training course, pass the exam, and receive your certificate of completion.
Step 4
Create an account on the Ohio Secretary of State's website, upload the required documents, and submit your application.
Step 5
Receive your commission via email from the Ohio Secretary of State.
Step 6
Return to Ohio Notary Services to purchase your official notary seal and other supplies. Enjoy FREE standard shipping on all notary supplies bundles with code "FREE"!
To learn more about how to become a notary, visit our Become a Notary page or view the instructional video below.
What are the costs involved for the education and testing?
The total cost depends on the type of notary and course you choose:
- Non-Attorney: $130
- Attorney: $75
- Renewal Options:
- Standard (1 hour): $45
- Expanded (3 hours): $75
- New Application (Attorneys & Non-Attorneys): $250
- Renewal: $160
What happens if I fail the test?
You can register to retake the test for free after a 30-day waiting period.
The test must be completed within 6 months of your BCI background check.
If you fail the initial test, you may retake the exam once.
After two attempts, you must re-register for the class and pay the $130 fee again.
May I have a refund for the fees I paid to Ohio Notary Services, LLC?
Refunds are not permitted, per the Secretary of State's website.
Please be certain that you register for the correct type of class (traditional notary commission vs online notary authorization)
If I do not know my Notary Commission Number, how can I find it?
You can call the Ohio Secretary of State at 614-644-4559 and ask for your commission number.
Is the Education Course optional or required, and what is the fee?
Notary education and testing are required and must be completed through an authorized testing provider, such as Ohio Notary Services.
The total cost depends on the type of notary and course you choose:
- Non-Attorney: $130
- Attorney: $75
Renewal Options:
- Standard (1 hour): $45
- Expanded (3 hours): $75
- New Application (Attorneys & Non-Attorneys): $250
- Renewal: $160
My commission has expired. Do I need to retest, and what are the requirements?
Yes. Under the Notary Modernization Act, once your commission expires, you are considered a new applicant. You must complete the entire notary application process again, which includes:
- A BCI background check
- The Secretary of State's New Notary Application
- The 3-hour education course and test
There is no grace period after your commission expires.
My commission expires this year. How soon can I begin the process to renew my commission?
Under the new law, you may begin the renewal process no sooner than 90 days before your commission expiration date.
Will I be reminded when my Ohio notary commission is about to expire?
Yes. Ohio Notary Services will contact you approximately 60 days before your commission expires. Our renewal team reaches out via email and phone call, lets you know your window is open, and walks you through the renewal process. Because Ohio law provides no grace period for expired commissions, this outreach is intended to remind you that the expiration date is approaching. Please keep your contact information up to date with us by calling 330-436-0118 or emailing info@becomeanohionotary.com so you do not miss this important communication. Your renewal course is a standard 1-hour online course available for $45 or an expanded 3-hour online course for $75.
Disclaimer: While Ohio Notary Services makes every effort to reach out before your expiration date, renewal outreach is a courtesy service. Notaries are responsible for ensuring their commission is renewed on time.
What is the process for renewing my notary commission in Ohio?
You can start the renewal process up to 90 days before your commission expires. Here's what to do:
- Get a BCI background check (code 147.022) — you can do this up to 6 months before your commission expires.
- Complete a 1-hour online renewal class through Ohio Notary Services. The class costs $45.
- Submit your Renewal Application on the Secretary of State’s website and pay the application fee by credit or debit card.
- Once approved, your new commission will be valid for 5 years and listed in the state’s public notary database.
I submitted my renewal application. How long does it take to process?
Please allow 4 to 6 weeks for processing by the Ohio Secretary of State.
Once I receive My commission certification, do i need to have the certificate notarized?
Yes. Before you begin your duties as a notary, you must take and sign an oath of office that the state sends you via email with your commission approval.
- If you still have a copy of your original oath, you do not need to complete this step again.
- If you no longer have your oath, you can take it before an active notary public or an Ohio elected official to have it administered and endorsed.
Be sure to keep copies of both your commission certificate and oath of office, and maintain updated contact information with the Ohio Secretary of State.
You do not need to send a copy of your notarized certificate to the Secretary of State.
What if I am an attorney? How do I become a notary in Ohio under the Notary Modernization Act?
Attorneys can become notaries in Ohio by completing a 3-hour online course through Ohio Notary Services, submitting the Attorney Notary Application and fee to the Secretary of State, and following the full process outlined on our Become An Ohio Attorney Notary Public page.
When notarizing a document, must an individual personally appear before me?
As a traditional notary, yes, an individual must personally appear and show proper identification.
Can I notarize a document when the person refuses to take the oath or “Swear to God” because of religious reasons?
Yes, you may still notarize the document, but you must ask the person to “affirm” that the facts stated are true to the best of his or her knowledge.
What is the most money I can charge as a notary for a single signature I notarize?
Notary fees are charged per notarial act, not per signature.
- A traditional notary may charge up to $5 for each notarial act (e.g., acknowledgment or affidavit).
- An online notary may charge up to $30 per online notarization plus a $10 technology fee for using an online notarization system (effective April 4, 2025).
How do I go about changing my name or address after receiving my commission?
You must update your notary commission with the Ohio Secretary of State within 30 days if your name or address changes.
Here’s the simplest way to do it:
- Go to the Ohio Secretary of State’s Notary page.
- Click “File Online” and then click the “Commission Amendment, Duplicate Request and Resignation” option.
- Complete the online forms as prompted to change name or address.
Failing to update your information may result in disciplinary action.
How do I order a notary stamp?
You can order your official Ohio notary stamp through the Ohio Notary Store.
1. Go to the Ohio Notary Store
2. Choose your product type
- For a traditional stamp, click “Notary Stamps.”
- If you need a kit, click “Notary Bundles.”
- If you need a digital stamp, click “Electronic Stamps.”
3. Select your stamp to customize
4. Enter your information
- Type your name and commission expiration date exactly as they appear on your commission.
5. Add to cart, review, and check out. It is that simple!
Do I have to keep a journal of all my notarial transactions?
Under the Notary Modernization Act, a journal is only required for Online Notaries. Traditional notaries are not required to keep a journal, but it is strongly recommended that you do.
What is the process for becoming a new Remote Online Notary in Ohio?
To become a Remote Online Notary, you must already be (or be in the process of becoming) a commissioned Ohio Notary Public. Then, complete the state-approved RON training and exam through Ohio Notary Services— the only authorized provider of RON education in Ohio.
See all the details on our Become a Remote Online Notary page.
What code is needed by the BCI for the required Background check?
147.022. Please have the report sent directly to the applicant.
How do I access the retake exam?
Follow this link to register to retake the Traditional Notary Exam: RETAKE TO BE A TRADITIONAL NOTARY PUBLIC.
Follow this link to register to retake the exam to be a remote online notary: REMOTE ONLINE NOTARY RETAKE EXAM.
How Long Does It Take To Become A Notary In Ohio?
Becoming an Ohio notary typically takes a few weeks and includes a required training class, passing a test, and applying through the Secretary of State.
Can Notaries Notarize Documents Online?
Yes, Ohio notaries can perform remote online notarizations after completing additional RON training and authorization.
How Often Does An Ohio Notary Need To Renew Their Commission?
Non-attorney Ohio notaries must renew their commission every five years.
Does A Notary Seal Have To Be Embossed?
No, Ohio notaries may use either an ink stamp or an embosser, though most use an ink stamp.
How To Become A Notary Signing Agent In Ohio?
Step 1 - Become a commissioned Ohio Notary Public
Step 2 - Get E&O insurance
Step 3 - Complete a background check
Step 4 - Purchase required signing supplies
Step 5 - Market your services to title companies and lenders
What Ink Color Should I Use To Notarize A Document?
Ohio law doesn’t require a specific ink color, but notaries should use permanent blue or black ink so documents look professional and aren’t questioned.
How Much Does A Remote Online Notary Make?
A remote online notary in Ohio can earn about $30 per notarization plus up to a $10 technology fee, with total income depending on experience, demand, and number of notarizations.
Read our Guide to Remote Online Notary Income.
Notary Seal Vs. Stamp: What’s The Difference And Which Should You Use?
In Ohio, notaries can use either an ink stamp or an embossed seal—both are legally acceptable, and the choice usually comes down to personal preference.
Read our Guide to Notary Stamps and Seals.
How Many Questions Are On The Notary Exam In Ohio?
The Ohio Notary Exam has 30 multiple-choice questions, and you must answer at least 24 correctly to pass.
Read our Guide to the Ohio Notary Exam.
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