Can I Be a Notary in Two States? What About Three?

Obtaining a Multistate Notary Commission

To become a notary public in multiple states, you must obtain a notary commission from each state. This allows you to perform notarial acts in states other than your home state. To qualify, you must meet the following requirements:

1. Be commissioned as a notary public in your home state. You must be in good standing and your commission must not be revoked, suspended, or canceled.
2. Complete any required notary education in your home state. Some states require notary applicants to complete a course on notary laws and procedures. Ensure you meet your home state’s education requirements before applying in another state.
3. Meet the age, residency, and background check requirements of the other state(s). Age and residency requirements vary by state, so check with the target state(s) for their specific qualifications. Most states also conduct background screenings as part of the application process.
4. Complete any required notary education and exams in the other state(s). Some states require completion of an approved notary education course and passing a state-administered exam. You must comply with the other state’s education and testing requirements.
5. Submit a notary public application, oath of office, and bond in the other state(s). The application, oath, and bond establish your qualifications and commission in that state. Fees for multistate commissions vary but are typically higher than for a single-state commission.
6. Some states will allow you to meet their qualifications if you simply work in the state instead of living there.

By meeting the necessary requirements and following the proper application procedures in multiple states, you can obtain a multistate notary commission. This allows you to serve as a notary public across state borders, offering your services to a wider range of clients. This is especially useful for those living in border cities.  With the proper credentials, you have the opportunity to build a successful multi-state notary business.

The Process for Becoming a Notary in Multiple States

To become a notary in multiple states, you must follow each state’s requirements individually. This typically involves:

1. Meeting each state’s eligibility criteria. This usually means being a resident of the state, being over 18 years of age, having no felony convictions, and having a high school diploma or equivalent.
2. Completing required education or training. Some states require you to take a notary education course. The course content and length vary by state but usually cover notary laws and procedures.
3. Passing a background check. Each state will conduct its own background check to ensure you meet character and fitness standards to serve as a notary.
4. Obtaining a notary surety bond. Most states require notaries to obtain a bond to help protect the public from misconduct or negligence. The bond amount varies by state.
5. Purchasing a notary seal. Nearly all states require notaries to obtain an official seal to authenticate notarial acts. The seal must include specific information like your name, state, and commission expiration date.
6. Applying for a notary commission. You must submit an application, required documentation like proof of eligibility and your bond, and any required fees in each state. If approved, the state will issue your notary commission.
7. Staying up-to-date with each state’s requirements. As a notary in multiple states, you must keep track of renewal periods, education requirements, fee changes, and law changes for each state to maintain your commission. Failure to do so may result in penalties or revocation of your notary commission.

Following the proper procedures and staying compliant with the laws of each state is essential to becoming and serving as a notary in multiple states. While the process requires diligence, it allows you to provide notarial services to a wider range of clients across state lines.

Online Notarization: A Possible Solution for Notaries in Two States

As a notary, you may find yourself moving to another state but still wanting to continue your notary work. Online notarization could be a solution that allows you to be commissioned in multiple states or if not, it can serve many of the same functions.

Online Notarization

With online notarization, also known as remote notarization, you can notarize documents for clients electronically over the internet. Using a webcam, you can verify a signer’s identity and notarize their documents remotely. Some states have enacted laws to specifically allow online notarization.

To become an online notary, you must follow your state’s requirements which typically involve additional training and registering with an online notary solution provider that is approved to operate in your state. These providers offer platforms for conducting online notarizations that have security measures like tamper-sealed electronic documents, authentication of the signer’s ID, and secure recording of the notarization ceremony.

If your current state and the state you are moving to both allow online notarization, you may be able to maintain your commission in both places. You would, however, still need to meet each state’s eligibility requirements and apply to become commissioned in the new state. While you are typically required to be physically located in the same state as you are performing a notarization, you are able to utilize cross state Notarization in order to service a number of clients from not just your commissioned states.

Keep in mind, however, that online notarization is still relatively new, and not all states have adopted laws authorizing it for notaries (waiting on you California). The technology and laws are evolving, so you need to stay up-to-date with the latest requirements in the states where you are commissioned. With some research and by following the proper procedures, online notarization makes it possible to be a notary public across state lines.

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FAQ

Q 1: How do I become a notary public in multiple states?
Answer: To become a notary in multiple states, you must obtain a separate notary commission from each state by meeting their specific requirements, including education, background checks, and residency qualifications.

Q 2: Can I serve as a notary public across state borders?
Answer: Yes, by obtaining a multistate notary commission, you can perform notarial acts across state borders, expanding your services to a wider range of clients.

Q 3: What are the typical requirements for obtaining a notary commission in another state?
Answer: Requirements vary by state but generally include being over 18, having no felony convictions, obtaining a surety bond, passing a background check, and completing required education or training.

Q 4: Is online notarization a viable option for notaries in multiple states?
Answer: Yes, online notarization allows notaries to notarize documents electronically across state lines, provided both the notary’s current state and the target state permit online notarization.