Gary Donis 
Whether you are a novice or a seasoned professional, learning how to become a Notary Public is necessary. You can earn up to $32,000 a year by becoming a Notary Public, and it’s also a great way to network with other professionals. However, you will need to prepare yourself before taking the test.
If you are interested in starting a career as a notary public, there are some essential steps on how to become or renew as a notary that you must take. These include registering your business, getting a website, and building a referral base.
Education Requirements
The education requirements for becoming a notary public vary from state to state. Depending on the state, a notary may need to take a course, pass an exam, or pass a written oath of office. Applicants should check with the Department of State for details on each state’s requirements.
In most states, a notary must be at least 18 years old. They must have completed a course of study, passed a notary exam, and had a background check. Most states also require a surety bond.
Law offices, financial institutions, and court clerks often employ notaries. A notary will administer oaths and affirmations. They will also be responsible for evaluating the credibility of witnesses.
Aspiring notaries can take courses in their state or online. In addition, most states have a short training program for new applicants.
Qualifications for Becoming a Notary Public
Becoming a notary public in New York is an excellent way to earn extra money. Various businesses, including financial institutions and law offices, can employ notaries. Depending on their schedules, they can work in full-time and part-time positions.
To apply for a commission in New York, you’ll need to fill out an application. You can do this online or in person. You’ll also need to pay a fee, and you’ll need to complete a background check and get fingerprinted.
Once you’ve been approved, you’ll need to pass a test. The exam is an hour long, and there are 40 questions. A passing score of 70% is required. However, you can skip the exam if you’re a licensed attorney or have been convicted of a crime.
Creating a Legal Business Entity
Consider starting a legal business entity if you want to jumpstart the competition. This will allow you to protect your assets from lawsuits and save you the headaches of dealing with the IRS. It is also easier to hire employees. For example, if you run your own notary services business, you won’t have to worry about obtaining an employer identification number (EIN) in most states.
One of the most common types of Notary businesses is the sole proprietorship. The US Census Bureau estimates that many independently owned Notary businesses fall into this category. Depending on the state where you are doing business, you might be required to obtain a license. A small business consultant can help you navigate the regulatory waters.
Get a Website
If you are interested in getting started as a Notary Public, there are many ways you can do so. In addition to building your online reputation, a website can make scheduling appointments more convenient. A notary public website can give your notary business a competitive edge.
When you build a notary public website, you want it to be as professional as possible. This is a brand’s best chance to convey trust and transparency. It’s also a place to tell visitors about your services and why they should care.
Your homepage should include a logo, tagline, and details about what you do. It’s also essential to have information on the types of documents you can notarize and your rates.
Build a Referral Base
To be successful in the notary business, you’ll need to build a referral base. This is the foundation of a successful small business. The more referrals you have, the more clients you can book, and the higher your rates are. Using social media to market your services will help you get the word out.
Building a referral base isn’t something to be taken lightly. A full-time notary signing agent averages 15 signings per month, so you must be prepared to devote 40 to 45 hours of your time to the job.
As a mobile notary, you’ll need to make a budget to cover the costs of training, equipment, and advertising. Having a plan will help you achieve your goals. Ensure you have the requisite insurance and reliable transportation to get you to your appointments. Once you’ve nailed down your startup costs, you can start making money!
