Starting July 1, 2020, provided that you are already a conventional notary in Iowa in terms of meeting all the requirements, you have the chance to apply for an online notary by:
- Have an existing commission as a traditional Notary Public.
- Sign up with a state-approved Remote Online Notary provider.
- Complete a state-required RON training course approved by the Secretary of State as required by Iowa Administrative Code section 721-43.5(3)(b)
- Complete a Remote Notarization application form online.
- Submit the form along with proof that you completed the training to the Secretary of State.
Once you’re authorized to perform RON in Iowa and approved on your platform, you’re good to go. Staying up to date with the latest laws is a best practice in Online Notarization as laws are changing quickly! Check out how to become a Traditional Notary below.
How to Become a Traditional Notary in Iowa (Get your Notary Commission)
To become an Iowa Notary Public, you need to complete the following:
- Meet all of Iowa’s eligibility requirements
- Fill out the Application for Appointment as Notary Public. This is considered your oath of office.
- Submit the application and $30 processing fee to Iowa’s Notary Division of the Secretary of State’s office.
- Receive your Notary commission from your Secretary of State.
- Obtain your official Notary seal and journal.
Once you have your seal, journal and commission you are ready to start performing notarial acts as a commissioned notary in Iowa.
What are the requirements to become a Notary in Iowa?
In order to become a Notary in Iowa, you must meet the following requirements:
- Be at least 18 years old.
- Be a permanent legal resident or citizen of the United States.
- You must be resident of Iowa
- Have the capability to read and write English.
- Not be disqualified to receive a commission under Section 9B.23.
You can also have a place of employment or practice in Iowa to qualify.

Are Online Notaries Legal in Iowa?
Online Notarization was made legal in Iowa from July 2021, according to the Chapter 9B of Iowa Code. Remote online notaries in Iowa have a mandate to be notaries with an existing traditional commission and also take an online remote notarization training. Besides, they are also required to do registration with their Secretary of State, in line with Iowa’s state-specific notarization regulations.
What to Expect as a Notary?
Just like in any other profession, the work of an online notary can significantly vary in terms of workload. As a general rule, the most active time is the tax season, when notarizations become necessary. Still, there is a regular, the whole year round need from businesses and people who require authentication services. Nonetheless, are struck with a lot of businesses needing notarizations regularly.
It is essential to keep in mind that as an online notary, you are the one who has to be in compliance with the state regulations. This covers checking the documents for their proper completion and witnessing. Always make sure that the documents are complete with all the required information. Additionally, the most effective online notaries are those who take out some time for their personal client acquisition and sales funneling.
How Much Can You Expect To Make as a Notary in Iowa?
When you create an account with Blue Notary to get started, you can expect to earn around $22 for online notarizations. As you gain more experience and have notarized more documents, you will be able to earn even more by taking on loan signing packages. You will be able to earn a very decent income – all from the comfort of your home office.
BlueNotary also has the option for you to Invoice Your Clients Outside of BlueNotary at your rates at a cost of just $3 per notarization for their Pro-Hybrid members. This makes your earnings very flexible depending on your ability to build a network.
Why Should You Consider Becoming An Online Notary In Iowa?
Becoming an Online Notary in Iowa is an easy way to offer convenient services and secure services to clients. eNotaries offer faster booking and easier document completion! Save clients and yourself time by working from home. What are you waiting for?
How do I Start Notarizing Online in Iowa?
Join the Notary Public Free Training Group in order to get advice from other Iowa notaries! They’ve been through the process and can answer all your questions! As well as keep you compliant with your S.O.S. 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. Blue Notary is the best option for super simple onboarding. We even have training videos and a signing simulator to get you comfortable with the process. Want more? Try our Facebook group full of notaries!
Register and get started here: Sign Up.Register and get started here: Sign Up.For any questions, feel free to reach out to us at [email protected].
Frequently Asked Questions About Becoming an Online Notary in Iowa
Is Online Notarization legal in Iowa?
Yes. Online Notarization was made legal in Iowa in July 2021 under Chapter 9B of the Iowa Code. Remote online notaries must hold an existing traditional commission, complete an online remote notarization training course, and register with the Iowa Secretary of State.
What are the basic requirements to become an online notary in Iowa?
You must already hold a traditional Notary Public commission in Iowa, sign up with a state-approved Remote Online Notary provider, complete the state-required RON training course approved by the Secretary of State (per Iowa Administrative Code section 721-43.5(3)(b)), and submit a Remote Notarization application along with proof of completed training.
What training is required for Iowa online notaries?
Applicants must complete a state-required RON training course approved by the Iowa Secretary of State, as outlined in Iowa Administrative Code section 721-43.5(3)(b), before their remote notarization application will be approved.
How much can I expect to earn as an online notary in Iowa?
New notaries starting with BlueNotary can expect to earn around $22 per online notarization. As you gain experience, income potential increases through loan signing packages, and Pro-Hybrid members can invoice clients directly outside of BlueNotary for just $3 per notarization.
How do I get started as an online notary in Iowa?
First, become a traditional Notary Public in Iowa by meeting the state’s eligibility requirements, filing your Application for Appointment, paying the $30 processing fee, and receiving your seal and journal. From there, sign up with a state-approved RON provider, complete the required training, and submit your Remote Notarization application to the Secretary of State. Joining a Notary Public Free Training Group or community like BlueNotary’s Facebook group can help you stay compliant and connect with other Iowa notaries along the way.