How to Become a Notary Public in Louisiana
Becoming a Notary Public in Louisiana involves a series of steps:
- Ensure that you meet all of Louisiana’s eligibility requirements (see below).
- Complete the Application to Qualify, available on the Secretary of State’s website, and submit it along with the $35 application fee.
- Pre-Assessment Registration: Register for the Notary Exam Pre-Assessment. You will receive log-in instructions via email from the LSU Center for Assessment and Evaluation.
- After receiving your pre-assessment score, register for the state Notary exam. It’s essential to complete all previous steps at least 30 days before your exam date and register for the exam at least 45 days in advance.
- Study Guide (Optional): Consider purchasing the optional Fundamentals of Louisiana Law and Practice study guide from the Secretary of State for $100.
- Pass the state-required exam.
- Execute two Oath of Office forms. Submit one original oath form and your bond or E&O insurance to your parish’s clerk of court. Provide the second oath form, along with your official signature page and an original or certified true copy of your bond or E&O insurance, signed by the parish clerk of court, to the Louisiana Secretary of State.
- Acquire your Notary seal and journal.
- Consider obtaining errors and omissions (E&O) insurance to minimize financial exposure, if you do not already have a policy.
- Continuing Education and Guidance (Optional but Recommended): Pursue continuing education opportunities and seek advice from experienced Notary experts if you feel the need for additional training or guidance.
Once you have your bond, seal, journal and commission you are ready to start performing notarial acts as a commissioned notary in Louisiana.
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Louisiana Notary Public Requirements
Certain fundamental qualifications must be met for an individual to become a Notary in Louisiana. Applicants must:
- Attain a minimum age of 18 years.
- Hold the status of a resident citizen or alien within the state.
- Be a registered voter in the parish where the application is submitted.
- Demonstrate proficiency in reading, writing, and speaking English.
- Possess a high school diploma or its equivalent.
- Not have felony convictions on their record, unless they have received a pardon.
For further details, consult the Fundamentals of Louisiana Notarial Law and Practice or the Louisiana SoS Website.
How much does it cost?
The application fee for a Louisiana Notary is $35, with a Notary Exam Pre-Assessment at $30 and the Notary Public Exam itself costing $100. Bond or E&O insurance costs depend on the vendor. Expect variances in prices for Notary supplies and educational materials, with some vendors including additional fees in their packages. New Notaries often require extra resources for training.
How long does it take?
Expect a processing time of up to one week for both the Application to Qualify and the Pre-Assessment. You must register for the Notary exam 45 days in advance, with exams held only in June and December.
How long does a Notary Commission in Louisiana last?
Notaries in Louisiana are commissioned for life, with a renewal of bond or E&O insurance required every five years.
What is required for Louisiana Notarization?
A Notary seal isn’t mandated by the state, but notarized documents must include your name, identification number, and “Notary Public” wording. While a Notary journal isn’t compulsory, it’s advised for keeping records of notarizations.
Is a Surety Bond required for Louisiana Notaries?
A $10,000 surety bond or E&O insurance is required, offering protection against legal challenges, with the need to renew every five years.
Louisiana Notary Public FAQs
Which state government office handles Notaries?
The Louisiana Secretary of State in Baton Rouge issues Notary commissions.
Although Louisiana does not require training, where can I get it?
A study guide is available from the Secretary of State’s office, purchasable online. Additionally, reputable Notary Public training can be found through online searches. Always vet any training provider carefully.
Can anyone help me become a Notary?
Yes, there are companies that offer comprehensive Notary services, including training, supplies, insurance, and application assistance. The Secretary of State’s website also provides application details for self-starters.
Where will I be able to notarize documents?
Non-attorney Notaries can notarize within their parish; attorney Notaries have statewide jurisdiction.
Who can I notarize for?
You can notarize for anyone except yourself, in documents you’re named in or stand to benefit from. While not specifically prohibited, notarizing for a spouse or relative or for a spouse’s business should be approached with caution to avoid conflicts of interest.
How much can LA Notaries charge per notarization?
Fees should be reasonable and disclosed to signers beforehand; the state does not set maximum charges.
What should I do if I move or change my name?
Notify the Secretary of State of any address or name changes. Address changes can be updated online or by mail/fax. For a parish move, a new Application to Qualify and a $35 fee are needed, along with two Oaths of Office forms, and an Official Signature page. A name change requires a new oath, updated bond or E&O policy, an Official Signature page with a name change affidavit, and a $35 fee.
How much legal risk will I face?
Risk varies. Mistakes or misconduct can lead to lawsuits, even if unintentional. Diligence in law adherence and meticulous record-keeping can mitigate legal threats.
What is the process for renewing my commission as a Louisiana Notary?
Though commissions are for life, proof of a $10,000 bond or E&O insurance renewal every five years is needed. Submit the renewed bond or insurance to your parish clerk, then to the Secretary of State with a $20 filing fee.
Is Online Notary Legal in Louisiana?
Absolutely, Louisiana has fully embraced online notarization following the passage of the bill in February 2022. It’s worth noting that all states, including those without specific RON laws, will recognize the notarial acts performed in Louisiana. While there might be some minor variations from state to state, the established precedents affirm that any notarial act compliant with Louisiana’s RON laws will be deemed valid. Additionally, Louisiana notaries are authorized to conduct online notarizations in accordance with La. Rev. Stat. Ann. §§ 35:621 et seq.
How Do You Become An Online Notary In Louisiana?
Effective from February 1, 2022, Louisiana Notaries have the opportunity to register for remote online notarizations (RONs). If you’re interested in becoming a remote Notary in LA, follow these steps:
- Maintain an active commission as a traditional Notary Public.
- Establish an agreement with a RON technology provider.
- Successfully complete a RON training course.
- Submit your application to the Secretary of State.
Once you’re authorized to perform RON in Louisiana and approved and familiar with your platform, you can start performing Remote Online Notarizations. Be sure to stay current with all your states local Online Notary laws!
Why Should You think about Becoming An Online Notary In Louisiana
Becoming an Online Notary in Louisiana is a simple way to offer convenient services and secure services to clients from wherever you are. Online Notaries offer faster booking and easier document completion turnaround times! Save clients and yourself time by working from home. What are you waiting for?
Louisiana Online Notary FAQ’s
Are Training, Exams, and Equipment Required for Louisiana Remote Online Notaries?
- Training Requirement: Yes, the Louisiana Secretary of State mandates that applicants complete a prescribed course of instruction.
- No Exam: Fortunately, there is no examination requirement for individuals aspiring to become remote online Notaries in the state.
- Necessary Technology and Supplies: To conduct remote notarizations in Louisiana, Notaries must possess a computer with a webcam, microphone, and a secure internet connection. The computer should support two-way audio and video communication via a live feed.Additionally, Notaries must contract with a Remote Online Notarization (RON) provider that meets state standards like BlueNotary. Other essential supplies include an electronic journal, electronic seal, and a digital certificate which are all provided by BlueNotary. Ensure that these items comply with the specifications of your chosen RON provider.
Do I Need Another Surety Bond or E&O Insurance Policy?
- No Additional Bond: You do not require a second bond in addition to the $10,000 bond or Errors and Omissions (E&O) policy required for your traditional commission.
Is E&O Insurance Mandatory in Louisiana?
- Louisiana mandates that traditional Notaries secure a five-year, $10,000 surety bond or E&O policy. Having either one fulfills the requirement, and obtaining a supplemental or second E&O policy is merely a recommendation, not a necessity.
What to Expect as a Notary?
As in other professions, the amount of work an online notary receives can vary widely. Generally the busiest time is tax season, when documents such as tax returns need to be signed and notarized. However, there is also a steady demand throughout the year from businesses and individuals in need of authentication services. There are many businesses that need consistent notarizations. Did we mention there are over 1.25 billion notarizations performed annually?
It is important to remember that when working as an online notary, you are responsible for adhering to the regulations set forth by the state. This includes making sure documents are properly notarized and witnessed. Always ensure documents contain all of the necessary information. The most successful online notaries spend some time doing their own client acquisition and sales funneling, especially those that are doing it online.
How do I Start Notarizing Online in Louisiana?
A great place to start is the BlueNotary Free Training Group. There you will find advice from other Louisiana notaries who’ve been through the process and can answer help answer your questions.
Becoming an online notary can be a great way to supplement your income and make a positive impact on the community. As an online notary, you get to decide which platform to use for finding clients.
BlueNotary is the best option for super simple onboarding and the independent notary looking to grow their own business. We even have training videos and a signing simulator to get you comfortable with the process.
