Become an Ohio Notary

Our online education and testing provide everything you need to become a notary in Ohio.

We guide you through every step, from state-required training and exams to obtaining your notary supplies. Ohio Notary Services is a partnership of the Akron, Cincinnati, Cleveland, Dayton, Ohio State and Toledo bar associations.

How to Get a Notary License in Ohio

To become an Ohio Notary, the law requires an individual meet the following:

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. HAVE THE REPORT MAILED DIRECTLY TO YOU. YOU WILL NEED TO UPLOAD A COPY AS PART OF THE APPLICATION PROCESS TO THE OHIO SECRETARY OF STATE’S OFFICE. Ohio Peace Officers may upload their Ohio Peace Officer Training Academy Certificate in lieu of a criminal record check report.

Step 3
Take our online notary training course, pass the exam (licensed attorneys are exempt from testing) 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.

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"!

If you meet the states requirements and obtained a Bureau of Criminal Investigation background check, register for our state-approved online training courses and begin your journey to becoming an Ohio notary!

Course for Non-Attorneys Course for Attorneys

Not sure which course is right for you? Take our short quiz to find out!

Course Quiz

Want to Advance Your Career as an Ohio Notary Public?

If you wish to become an online remote notary (RON) or notary signing agent (NSA), you MUST be commissioned as a "traditional" Ohio Notary Public or in the process of becoming one to pursue these additional notary certifications and authorizations.

We are the ONLY entity authorized by the state to provide education and testing for Remote Online Notary (RON) authorization.

Become a Remote Online Notary (RON) Become a Notary Signing Agent

Expand Your Notary Career with Remote Services

After becoming a commissioned Ohio notary, you can take the next step with SIGNiX’s Remote Online Notarization platform. SIGNiX helps notaries offer secure, convenient online notarizations that open the door to new clients and revenue opportunities.

What Our Customers Say

"I really got a lot out of the education. It was much better than when I first became a notary. It impressed me more with the seriousness of the commitment as well..." - Debra S.

"The website was very educational, and the training itself was well put together. It was definitely nice being able to break up the training video over a few days! Overall, I feel ONS made the educational portion of my license smooth and easy..." - Leann M.

Frequently Asked Questions

What can an Ohio notary do?

A notary public is an individual with the legal authority to administer oaths within their respective state.

They are also permitted to receive and validate acknowledgments of various legal documents, including deeds, mortgages, liens, and powers of attorney.

What disqualifies you from being a notary in Ohio?

In Ohio, you can be disqualified from becoming a notary if you have a felony conviction, certain misdemeanor convictions, or if you have been found incompetent or mentally incapacitated by a court.

Additionally, not paying child support or failing to meet educational requirements can also disqualify you.

It's important to check the specific eligibility criteria and requirements with the Ohio Secretary of State's office before pursuing a notary commission.

How long do Ohio notary commissions last?

Ohio notary public commissions are valid for 5 years. Renewing your commission must be done BEFORE they expire.

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.

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.