How to Become a Notary Public in Kentucky
- Meet all of Kentucky’s eligibility requirements (see below).
- Obtain a $1,000 surety bond.
- Submit a completed application to the Secretary of State.
- After processing, your Certificate of Appointment will be forwarded to the county clerk of the county where you applied.
You’ll be notified to visit the county clerk’s office within 30 days to swear in, post your bond, and file your commission.
Kentucky Notary Public Requirements
There are basic qualifications for a person to become a Notary in Kentucky. All applicants must be:
- At least 18 years old
- A citizen or permanent legal resident of the U.S.
- A resident of or have a place of employment or practice in a county within Kentucky (same location where the application is made)
- Able to read and write English
The SOS may deny an applicant for any act or omission that demonstrates the individual lacks honesty, integrity, competence or reliability as a Notary Public.
What is the difference between a Notary Public State at Large and Special Commission?
A Notary Public State at Large in Kentucky is authorized to notarize within the state, with documents recordable in or outside Kentucky. A Special Commission Notary is limited to notarizing for civil actions or legal proceedings originating in Kentucky, requiring a specific signature format acknowledging their Special Commission status for Kentucky recordation.
How much does it cost?
The state filing fee is $10. Additional costs for bonds and optional items like seals and journals vary by vendor. New and renewing Notaries face varying expenses for supplies and training
How long does it take to become a Notary Public State at Large?
The process typically ranges from two to six weeks, factoring in the time for the Secretary of State to process your application and the subsequent steps at the county clerk’s office.
How long does a Kentucky Notary Public commission last?
Notaries in Kentucky are commissioned for life, subject to bond or E&O insurance renewals every five years.
Do you have to take training to be a Notary in Kentucky?
No specific training is required for Kentucky Notaries.
Do you have to pass an exam to be a Notary Public in Kentucky?
No specific exam is required for Kentucky Notaries.
Are Notaries in Kentucky requires to get a seal and journal?
While a Notary seal and journal are optional, they are recommended for professionalism and legal protection. Seals must include specific information and be designed for legibility. Although not mandated by law, maintaining a Notary journal, especially for electronic notarizations, is considered best practice.
Do I need a surety bond or insurance?
A $1,000 surety bond is required for Kentucky Notaries, with many opting for additional E&O insurance to safeguard against potential legal costs. Notary commissions are for life, but the bond or insurance must be renewed and filed with the state every five years.
Kentucky Notary Public FAQs
Which state government office handles Notaries?
The Kentucky Secretary of State, which is in Frankfort, KY, issues Notary Public commissions.
Although Kentucky does not require training, where can I get it?
Numerous reputable Notary Public training providers can be discovered through a simple online search. However, keep in mind that the Secretary of State neither conducts workshops nor seminars related to Notary training, nor endorses any businesses promoting such training. Given that the Secretary of State lacks authority to regulate these training providers, it’s crucial to carefully evaluate any company you consider engaging with for your Notary education.
Can anyone help me become a Notary?
Yes. Several companies offer Notary training, supplies, insurance and assistance with the entire application process. Also, the Secretary of State’s website has the application with submission details, if you want to get the process started on your own.
Where will I be able to notarize?
You will be able to notarize from anywhere in the state of Kentucky.
Who can I notarize for?
You can notarize for everyone, excluding yourself. You cannot notarize your own signature, nor can you notarize documents you are named in or would benefit from. Kentucky law prohibits Notaries from notarizing for a spouse or relative or any documents in which either of them has a direct benefit.
What fees can KY Notaries Public charge for notarizations?
In Kentucky, Notaries are allowed to set their own fees. As a best practice, make sure the fees you charge are reasonable, and the signer is made aware of them prior to the notarization.
What should I do if I move or change my name?
If you make any changes to your name, mailing address, email address, county of residence or signature, you must notify the Secretary of State within 10 days after making the change. You have to complete the Notary Public State at Large Change of Information application and submit the form along with a $10 fee payable to the Kentucky State Treasurer.
How much legal risk will I face?
It depends. Even the most careful and detail-oriented people can make mistakes. As a Notary Public, any unintentional mistake you make or intentional misconduct you engage in could be very costly for everyone involved. Notaries have been sued for financial damages that signers incur, and lawsuits are expensive even if you’re innocent. If you are diligent in following the law and keep thorough records, you’ll be better prepared if any legal action does come your way.
What is the process to renew my commission as a Kentucky Notary?
The process to renew is the same as it is to apply for a new Notary commission. You should submit your renewal application no earlier than four weeks before your commission expires. You may purchase a new Notary seal to reflect your updated commission expiration date. You may also choose to get a new record book (journal) if your old one is full.
Is Online Notary Legal in Kentucky?
As of January 1, 2020, Kentucky Notaries can apply to perform remote online notarizations. The steps you must take to complete the registration process can be found in this practical guide or by scrolling down.
How can I become an Online Notary?
Kentucky Online Notaries must:
- Have current and valid Notary Public commission.
- Sign up with one or more RON technology providers from a list of state-approved vendors.
- Provide a PDF file of your digital certificate that includes your electronic signature and digital stamp. This can be done with BlueNotary’s Session Simulator.
- Scan proof of your $1,000 surety bond (insurance).
- Pay the $10 registration fee.
- Complete the required registration form and submit it to the Secretary of State office.
Once you meet your state requirements, you can officially start notarizing on BlueNotary!
Become an Online Notary is an easy way to offer convenient services and secure services to clients. Online Notaries offer faster booking and easier document completion! And it’s all totally legal! You can make extra money while not changing anything about your schedule. So what are you waiting for?
What Can I Expect?
Like any other job, the work load for eNotaries can vary. The busiest time is generally tax season. However, there’s always going to be a steady demand for one-time documents. Plus, a lot of businesses have notary contracts.
Although online, eNotarization must follow state regulations. This includes checking for accuracy. Also, the most successful Online Notaries spend time doing their own networking to get customers.
How do I become an Online Notary?
As an eNotary, you decide which platform to use for finding clients. BlueNotary is an easy choice with simple start up. You get training videos and a signing simulator to get you comfortable with the process.
Join our Facebook notary group! It’s a great place for advice from Kentucky notaries who went through the process. It’s normal to have questions along the way. We can answer them while helping to ensuring state compliance. It’s a great way to make money while keeping your day the same.
