How to Become a Notary in New York




2025 UPDATED GUIDE

How to Become a Notary in New York

Complete step-by-step guide — requirements, costs, timeline, and how to build a profitable notary business in New York.

4–6 weeks
Average Timeline
$110–400
Total Cost Estimate
Yes
Exam Required

New York Notary Requirements at a Glance

Age & Residency

18+, NY resident

Bond Required

No bond required

Cost: $0

Exam

Required

Application Fee

$60

4 years term

Step-by-Step: Becoming a Notary in New York

Follow these steps to get your New York notary commission

1

Meet Basic Eligibility Requirements

Before applying, ensure you meet these requirements:

  • Be at least 18 years old
  • New York resident or have an office/place of business in New York
  • No felony convictions (convictions must be disclosed)
  • Be able to read and write English
2

Complete Professional Training (Highly Recommended)

New York doesn’t require formal training, but professional education significantly increases your success rate and earning potential.

✅ Our training covers New York notary laws, correct notarization procedures, avoiding liability, and building a profitable business. View New York Training Courses →

3

Pass the State Exam

Must pass the New York notary public exam (40 questions, proctored, 70% to pass). Exams scheduled through the Department of State.

4

Submit Your Application

4

Submit Your Application

Complete and submit your notary application to the New York Division of Licensing Services (through County Clerk).

Application Fee: $60

Processing Time: 4–6 weeks

Commission Term: 4 years

5

Receive Commission & Order Supplies

Once approved, order your official supplies:

  • Official Notary Stamp — name, commission number, expiration
  • Notary Journal — required or strongly recommended
  • Additional Supplies — ink pads, embosser, certificates, business cards

💰 Supply Costs: Budget $50–150 for quality notary supplies.

Start Your Notary Business!

You’re now a commissioned notary in New York. Here’s how to start earning:

Quick Start (Part-Time)
  • • List on notary directories
  • • Network with local businesses
  • • Join signing agent platforms
  • • Earn $500–$2K/month
Scale to Full-Time
  • • Become a loan signing agent
  • • Build title company relationships
  • • Implement marketing systems
  • • Earn $50K–$100K+/year

⚠️ Special Requirements for New York:

New York requires a state exam but NO bond. Must pass the 40-question proctored exam with 70% or higher. File oath of office and signature with county clerk. The exam creates a barrier to entry — meaning less competition.

Total Cost Breakdown

What You’ll Spend to Become a New York Notary

Application Fee$60
Exam Fee$20–40
Notary Supplies (stamp, journal, etc.)$50–100
Professional Training (Optional)$27–237
Total Investment:$110–400

💰 Return on Investment: New York mobile notaries and signing agents earn $60,000–$100,000+ annually. NYC alone processes tens of thousands of real estate closings annually.

New York’s exam requirement creates a barrier to entry — meaning less competition. NYC, Long Island, Westchester, and Hudson Valley suburbs all see massive loan signing volume.

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Expand Your Notary Income

Add specialized services to maximize your earning potential in New York

Apostille Services

International document authentication. Premium pricing.

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Fingerprinting

Background check services. Perfect add-on.

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Credit Repair

Recurring revenue alongside your notary business.

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Become a Notary Anywhere in New York

Our training helps aspiring notaries in every New York city

New York City
Buffalo
Rochester
Yonkers
Syracuse
Albany
New Rochelle
Mount Vernon
Schenectady
Utica
White Plains
Hempstead
Troy
Niagara Falls
Binghamton
Freeport
Valley Stream
Long Beach
Ithaca
Spring Valley
Rome
North Tonawanda
Poughkeepsie
Saratoga Springs
Jamestown
Port Chester
Middletown
Elmira
Peekskill
Kingston
Glen Cove
Ossining

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to become a notary in New York?

The typical timeline is 4–6 weeks. The exam requirement adds time but creates less competition.

How much does it cost?

Total costs range from $110 to $400, including application fee ($60), supplies ($50–100), and optional training ($27–237).

How much can I earn as a notary in New York?

New York mobile notaries and signing agents earn $60,000–$100,000+ annually. NYC alone processes tens of thousands of real estate closings annually.

Do I need training?

New York does not require formal training. Professional education significantly increases your success rate, earning potential, and helps avoid costly mistakes.

How do I renew my commission?

Renew before your current commission expires through the New York Division of Licensing Services (through County Clerk). Your commission is valid for 4 years.

© 2025 Noble Notary & Legal Document Preparers. All rights reserved.

This guide provides general information about becoming a notary in New York. Requirements may change. Always verify current requirements with the New York Division of Licensing Services (through County Clerk). This is not legal advice.