How to Become a Notary Public in Ohio (Get your Notary Commission)
- Make sure you meet all of the state’s requirements (see below).
- Go to an approved Webcheck® provider to get a criminal records check. Check your BCI report, make sure you have no disqualifications.
- Choose a state-approved testing vendor.
- Take the required Ohio three-hour Notary education course and pass the exam.
- Create a user account on the Ohio Secretary of State’s website.
- Complete the Notary application form online using the account you created in the previous step.
- Upload a PDF copy of your criminal records check, your course and test certificates, and a copy of your signature.
- Pay the $15 submission fee.
- You will get your commission via email. The email will include instructions from the Secretary of State regarding your oath of office.
- Obtain an official Ohio Notary stamp.
What are the Requirements to Become a Notary in Ohio?
To become a Notary in Ohio, candidates must fulfill the following criteria:
- Be a minimum age of 18 years old.
- Reside in Ohio or be a non-resident attorney practicing law in Ohio, with their main office or practice situated within the state.
- Maintain a clean record without any disqualifying offenses.
Disqualifying offenses typically encompass crimes involving moral turpitude, fraud, theft, and various violent or sexual offenses. Ohio’s specific list of disqualifying offenses is outlined in section 4776.10 and Chapter 2913 of the Revised Code. Additionally, the Secretary of State’s website provides an overview chart of such offenses.
The decision to disqualify an applicant based on a specific offense rests with the discretion of the Secretary of State.
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Is training necessary to become a Notary in Ohio?
Yes, prospective Ohio Notaries are mandated to complete a three-hour educational course offered by a state-approved provider.
Do you Have to Take an Exam to Become an Ohio Notary?
Indeed, upon completion of the Notary course, individuals must undergo and pass an examination administered by the chosen educational provider. In the event of failure, a waiting period of 30 days is imposed before a reattempt. Failing the exam twice necessitates restarting the entire application process from scratch.
However, attorneys applying for Ohio Notary status are exempt from this examination.
Essential Notary Supplies for Ohio Notaries
What supplies are essential for newly commissioned Ohio Notaries? Upon receiving your Notary commission, acquiring an official Notary seal becomes imperative. This seal can be in the form of either a stamp or an embosser, incorporating specific details such as:
- The state’s coat of arms within a circle of minimum ¾” and maximum 1″ in diameter.
- Inscriptions like “Notary Public,” “Notarial Seal,” or similar phrases.
- Your name (alternatively, your name can be printed, typed, or stamped near your signature).
- The designation “State of Ohio.”
When procuring a seal, it’s crucial to consider quality and durability. Stamps should ensure ink does not bleed during or after use to prevent document rejection due to smudging. Additionally, if opting for an embosser, securing an inker to enhance seal visibility during photocopying is advisable. Confirm whether the seal comes with a lifetime guarantee.
While the state recommends maintaining a Notary journal to record traditional notarizations, it’s not a statutory requirement.
Are you Required to have a Surety Bond?
Are surety bonds or insurance policies obligatory for Ohio Notaries? Ohio does not mandate a surety bond. However, acquiring errors and omissions (E&O) insurance is discretionary. Notary E&O insurance serves as a protective measure in case of inadvertent errors or false claims against you, covering legal fees and awarded damages up to the selected coverage limit.
Frequently Asked Questions about Notary Procedures in Ohio
Who oversees Notaries in Ohio?
The Ohio Secretary of State’s Office, located in Columbus, OH, administers Notary responsibilities following the enactment of the Notary Modernization Act.
Are there training resources available for aspiring Notaries in Ohio?
Yes, several private organizations offer accredited Notary training courses and examinations. The Secretary of State’s website maintains a list of approved providers.
3. Where can Ohio Notaries perform notarizations?
Ohio Notaries have jurisdiction throughout the entire state and can conduct notarizations anywhere within its borders.
4. Who is eligible to receive notarization services in Ohio?
Notarizations can be performed for any individual making a reasonable request and meeting all necessary prerequisites, including personal appearance and providing satisfactory proof of identity.
5. How should I update my information as a Notary in Ohio?
Any changes to name or address must be promptly reported to the Ohio Secretary of State’s Office within 30 days. This can be done online by initiating an application for amendment, duplication, or resignation.
7. What is the process for renewing a Notary commission in Ohio?
Renewal mirrors the initial application process, with a shortened one-hour educational course costing $45. Renewals do not require reexamination and can be initiated three months before the current commission’s expiration date.
Are Online Notaries Legal To Work in Ohio?
Yes, as of September 22, 2019, online notaries are legally allowed to work in Ohio. The Ohio Revised Code Section 147.64 states the Authority of online notary public.
What Are The Requirements To Become An Online Notary In Ohio?
In order to become an online notary in Ohio, you need to meet the following requirements:
- Have an existing traditional Notary Public commission.
- Choose a RON vendor and obtain a compatible digital certificate and eseal.
- Complete the application form.
- Use the digital certificate and eseal you bought to sign the Statement of Officer form.
- Pay the $50 application fee.
- You should receive a reference number
Once you meet all of these qualifications, you can be appointed an online notary in Ohio.
How Do You Become An Online Notary In Ohio?
Once you have met all the requirements to become a traditional notary in Ohio, you can apply to become an online notary by:
- Hold an existing commission as a traditional Notary Public.
- Choose a RON vendor.
- Buy a digital certificate and eseal that is compatible with your chosen vendor.
- Complete the form.
- Use the digital certificate and eseal you bought to sign the Statement of Officer form.
- Pay the application fee.
- You should receive a reference number and email regarding your application in less than 3 business days.
Once you have become an online notary in Ohio, you will be able to provide secure remote notarial services for Ohio residents. Always ensure that you follow the guidelines and laws set out by the state, as well as your chosen RON vendor.
Why Should You Consider Becoming An Online Notary In Ohio
Becoming an online notary in Ohio is a great way to offer convenient and secure services to clients. It can also be very lucrative for those who choose to do so as the fees you charge tend to be higher than traditional notarial services. Additionally, online notaries are in high demand due to the convenience they provide, from conducting remote meetings to handling transactions without requiring someone to be physically present.
Finally, it’s the perfect time as 1.25 billion notarizations are done annually in the Unites States and more and more of these notarizations are moving online.
What Steps Should You Take To Remain Compliant With Ohio Laws?
In order to remain compliant with Ohio laws, online notaries must take the following steps:
- Keep up-to-date records of all your remote notarizations.
- Verify the identity of each signer using an approved identification method such as a driver’s license or passport.
- Maintain a physical presence in the state of Ohio during remote notarial acts.
- Maintain a secure environment for digital documents.
- Follow the Ohio Revised Code, as well as any other applicable laws and regulations pertaining to Notaries Public in Ohio.
- Store all records and documents securely according to the requirements set out by the Ohio Secretary of State’s office.
- Stay up-to-date on your continuing education requirements.Follow the guidelines and processes set out by your chosen RON vendor.
By following these steps, you can ensure that you remain compliant with the laws governing online notaries in Ohio.
What to Expect From the Job?
As in other professions, the amount of work an online notary receives can vary widely. Generally the busiest times for notaries are during 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.
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 completed and witnessed and ensuring they contain all of the necessary information. Additionally, the most successful online notaries spend some time doing their own client acquisition and sales funneling.
Can I do Online Notary in Ohio?
Yes, you can do online notary in Ohio. In order to become an online notary, you just need to meet the state requirements for certification and obtain a commission from Ohio. You can also join the BlueNotary Free Notary Training Group in order to get advice from Ohio notaries who have already been through the process and will share exactly what you need to do. They’ll help make sure you’re compliant with your SOS. 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 service provider to use for finding clients. Blue Notary is the best option as we make it super easy for you to onboard and start notarizing documents online. We have training videos and a signing simulator to get you comfortable with the process. We also have a facebook group full of notaries to help you get through the process and walk the path they’ve helped trail before.
You would be able to earn money with each document you notarize. There are no hidden charges that you need to worry about as we have a very straightforward policy. To register and get guided through the process hop on our BlueNotary Notary Registration Page.
