A notary public is an official who witnesses document signings and administers oaths. To become a notary public, you’ll typically need to fill out an application, pay a fee, and schedule an appointment to take the exam. Exam preparation may vary depending on where you live and your desire to become a notary. However, you can prepare using training materials provided your region or enrolling in a notary public training course. You can, for example, take a notary public training course online, in a classroom, or through self-study documents mailed to you.
Making sure you meet your jurisdiction’s requirements for becoming a notary public is a part of preparing for the exam. You will most likely be unable to take the exam if you do not meet the requirements. While notary public candidates must be at least 18 years old and pay an application fee in many jurisdictions, there are some exceptions. Many jurisdictions require background checks as part of the application process, so you may need to have a clean criminal record. In some countries, such as the United Kingdom, a degree is even required to become a notary public.
The requirements and schedules for the notary public exam may differ from one location to the next. However, in many places, the exam is only available on certain days. In some cases, the exam is only given once a month. You’ll almost certainly need to register for the notary public exam ahead of time as you study for it. You might want to choose an exam that gives you plenty of time to study and prepare.
Aspiring notaries can study for their exams using training materials provided many jurisdictions. If your jurisdiction allows it, you may be sent a booklet or kit containing exam materials that you can use to study for the notary public exam. Some jurisdictions also offer online study materials to assist aspiring notaries in studying for the exam.
It’s important to remember that notary public training classes aren’t always required. Although notary associations frequently recommend classes for everyone, studying a notary public handbook may be sufficient in some cases. To ensure that you are getting the right preparation for the notary exam in your jurisdiction, you may do well to contact the Secretary of State in the US, the Commonwealth office in the UK, or a similar authority in your jurisdiction, for assistance.