In October 2017, Pennsylvania officially adopted the Revised Uniform Law on Notarial Acts (RULONA), bringing significant changes to the state’s notary public education, testing, and appointment process.
To make this process easy to follow, we’ve broken it down into seven simple steps to help you become a commissioned Pennsylvania notary.
1. Meet Qualifications
Before you can apply to become a notary, you must meet the following requirements:
✅ Be at least 18 years old
✅ Be a U.S. citizen or permanent legal resident
✅ Be able to read and write in English
✅ Possess good moral character (i.e., no felony convictions)
✅ Be a Pennsylvania resident or maintain a place of business/employment in the state
If you meet these qualifications, you’re ready for the next step!
2. Complete a State-Approved Notary Education Course
All new and renewing notaries are required to complete a state-approved 3-hour education course.
A course, like the one provided by ThePANotary.com, will ensure you fully understand your responsibilities as a notary public, including how to properly perform notarial acts such as:
Administering oaths and affirmations
Taking affidavits and depositions
Certifying copies
3. Submit Your Notary Application
After completing your course, the next step is to submit your application to the Pennsylvania Department of State.
Where to Apply: notaries.pa.gov
Application Fee: $42 (non-refundable)
Required Document: A copy of your signed course completion certificate
4. Pass the PA Notary Exam
Once your application is approved, you’ll receive permission to schedule your notary exam.
Who Needs to Take the Exam?
New applicants → Required to pass the exam
Renewing notaries → Exempt from the exam
Exam Provider: Pearson VUE (multiple testing locations across Pennsylvania)
Exam Fee: $65 (non-refundable, each attempt)
If you don’t pass on the first attempt, don’t worry! You have up to six months to retake the test as many times as needed (paying the exam fee each time).
✅ Once you pass, you’ll receive a ‘Notice of Appointment’ email from the state. However, this is not your commission yet—there are still a few more steps to complete!
5. Obtain a $10,000 Surety Bond
Before you can be commissioned, Pennsylvania law requires all notaries to obtain a $10,000 surety bond.
The surety bond serves as financial protection for the public. If a notary violates the law and causes financial harm, the state may use the bond to compensate the affected party.
Cost: Approximately $50 (varies by provider)
Once you have your bond, you’re almost there!
6. Take the Oath of Office
With your bond secured, your next step is to take the oath of office at your local Recorder of Deeds Office in the county where you work or conduct business.
While it may not be as grand as a presidential swearing-in, you will be required to raise your right hand and swear to uphold the duties of a Pennsylvania notary public.
7. Record Your Official Signature
The final step is to file your official signature with the Prothonotary’s Office in your county. A Prothonotary is the county’s official record keeper. Your notary signature will be recorded on file for verification purposes.Once you complete this step, you’ll officially be a commissioned Pennsylvania notary public for a 4-year term! 🎉
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