How to Become a Mortgage Notary in Arizona (6 Easy Steps)

Becoming a mortgage notary in Arizona is a great way to enter the real estate industry while enjoying flexible work and steady demand.
As a notary for mortgage closings, you’ll play a key role in ensuring real estate transactions are legally binding by verifying identities and notarizing essential loan documents. With Arizona’s thriving housing market, there’s a strong need for qualified notary signing agents.
This guide will walk you through the steps, requirements, costs, and career potential of becoming a mortgage notary in Arizona.

Quick Steps to Become an Arizona Mortgage Notary:

• Meet the Requirements – Be 18+, an AZ resident, and a U.S. citizen or legal resident.
• Get a $5,000 Surety Bond – Buy from a reliable bond provider like TMD.
• Complete the Notary Application – Fill out the online form.
• Notarize Your Bond and Oath – Sign both in front of a notary.
• Submit Everything – Mail the application, bond, and fee to the Arizona State Secretary of State.
• Wait for Approval – Get your commission in 4-6 weeks.
• Buy Your Notary Stamp and Journal – Order required notary supplies.

 

Get Your Arizona Notary Bond Here

 

What Is a Mortgage Notary?

A mortgage notary is a notary public who specializes in real estate and loan document notarizations. Their primary responsibility is to ensure that mortgage documents are signed correctly, legally binding, and free from fraud.
Mortgage notaries play a key role in home purchases, refinances, and mortgage agreements by verifying the identities of signers, witnessing signatures, and confirming that all documents comply with state and federal regulations. By preventing fraud and ensuring accuracy, they help facilitate smooth real estate transactions.

Arizona Notary Public Requirements

Before you can become a mortgage notary in Arizona, you must first meet the state’s notary public requirements. Arizona has straightforward eligibility criteria to ensure notaries can perform their duties responsibly.

Eligibility Criteria:

• Must be at least 18 years old.
• Must be an Arizona resident.
• Must be a U.S. citizen or legal permanent resident.
• Must be able to read and write in English.
• No felony convictions (unless civil rights are restored).

Meeting these requirements is the first step toward becoming a notary signing agent and handling mortgage document notarizations in Arizona.

Steps to Become a Mortgage Notary in Arizona

Becoming a mortgage notary in Arizona involves a few key steps, from securing a notary bond to obtaining your commission and supplies. Follow this guide to complete the process smoothly and start notarizing mortgage documents with confidence.

Step 1 – Purchase a $5,000 Notary Bond

Arizona requires all notaries to have a $5,000 surety bond, which protects the public from financial harm caused by notarial misconduct. This bond does not protect the notary—it ensures that the notary follows state laws and ethical practices.

• Where to buy it: Surety bond companies, insurance agencies, notary organizations
• Cost: Around $35
• Validity: The bond is valid for four years

Step 2 – Complete the Arizona Notary Application

Once you have your notary bond, you must submit a notary application through the Arizona Secretary of State’s website (Apply Here).

Required information:

• Personal details (name, address, county of residence)
• Notary bond details (bonding company, bond amount, and dates)
• Oath of Office (must be notarized)
• Disclosure of any felony convictions

You can submit the application online or by mail, but ensure all information is accurate to avoid delays.

Step 3 – Notarize Your Bond Form and Oath of Office

Before submitting your application, Arizona law requires you to have your Notary Bond Form and Oath of Office notarized.

Where to get it notarized:

• Any Arizona notary public
• Banks, UPS Stores, mobile notaries
• Some bonding companies offer free notarization if you purchase your bond from them

Cost: $5–$15

Step 4 – Submit Your Notary Application and Fees

After notarizing your documents, submit your completed application and bond to the Arizona Secretary of State.

• Application fee: $43
• Submission methods: Online or by mail
• Processing time:
  • Standard: 4–6 weeks

Step 5 – Receive Your Notary Commission Certificate

Once your application is approved, you’ll receive your Notary Commission Certificate in the mail.
Important details to check:

• Name: Ensure it matches your application
• Commission start and expiration date: Confirm the four-year term
• County of residence: Should be correct based on your application

Step 6 – Order Your Notary Supplies

To start working as a mortgage notary, you’ll need the required supplies.

Essential notary supplies:

• Notary seal/stamp – Must meet Arizona’s legal requirements
• Notary journal – Required to record all notarial acts
• Fee schedule – Recommended but not mandatory

Where to buy:

• National Notary Association (NNA)
• Notary Rotary
• Office supply stores

Once you have your commission and supplies, you’re officially ready to notarize mortgage documents and begin working as a mortgage notary signing agent in Arizona.

What Does a Mortgage Notary Do?

A mortgage notary plays a crucial role in real estate transactions, ensuring that all mortgage documents are properly signed, legally binding, and free from fraud. They act as impartial witnesses to loan signings, helping to protect both lenders and borrowers during the mortgage process.

Here’s what a mortgage notary does:

• Verify identities – Confirm that borrowers match their government-issued IDs.
• Witness signatures – Ensure all required parties sign correctly and willingly.
• Notarize loan documents – Handle notarization for mortgages, refinances, and home equity loans.
• Administer oaths – Swear in signers when required to confirm the truthfulness of statements.
• Prevent fraud – Confirm that signers are aware of what they’re signing and are not under duress.
• Follow legal requirements – Ensure compliance with Arizona notary laws and lender regulations.
• Keep records – Maintain a detailed notary journal of all transactions, as required by law.
• Assist in closings – Work with title companies and lenders to finalize home loan agreements.

By ensuring legal compliance and document accuracy, mortgage notaries play a vital role in home financing and real estate transactions. Their work helps protect all parties involved in buying, refinancing, or securing home loans.

How Long Does It Take to Become a Mortgage Notary in Arizona?

Becoming a mortgage notary in Arizona typically takes 4 to 6 weeks from start to finish. This includes the time required to purchase a notary bond, submit the application, and receive your notary commission.
For those needing a faster turnaround, Arizona offers expedited processing. By paying an additional $25 fee, applicants can receive approval within 1 to 2 business days.
The timeline may vary based on application accuracy and processing volume, so it’s best to double-check your paperwork before submission to avoid delays.

How Much Does It Cost to Become a Mortgage Notary in Arizona?

Becoming a mortgage notary in Arizona costs between $100 and $250, depending on the supplies and services you choose. This includes state fees, required bonds, and essential notary tools.

Here’s a breakdown of the costs:

• Notary bond (required) – $35
• Application fee – $43
• Notarization of bond form and oath – $5–$15
• Notary stamp and journal – $30–$75
• Optional training and certification – $50–$100
• Expedited processing (optional) – Check with your state to see what options they have available.

While the initial investment varies, many mortgage notaries earn back their costs quickly through loan signing appointments.

Estimated Expense Cost

Expense	Estimated Cost
Application filing fee	$43
$5,000 surety bond	$35
E&O Insurance (Optional)	$25 – $100
Bond notarization fee	$10
Notary journal	$12 – $38
Notary seal/stamp	$18 – $29
Fee schedule (required)	$10 – $20
Total Estimated Cost	$128 – $190

How Much Do Mortgage Notaries Make in Arizona?

Becoming a mortgage notary in Arizona offers a flexible career path with the potential for substantial earnings. Income varies based on factors such as experience, location, and the number of signings completed.​

Typical Earnings

Mortgage notaries, also known as Notary Signing Agents, typically earn between $75 and $200 per signing appointment. The exact fee depends on factors like the complexity of the loan package and the client’s fee structure. ​Loan Signing System

Part-Time vs. Full-Time Income

• Part-Time: Completing 5 signings per week at an average of $100 per signing can result in approximately $2,000 per month.​
• Full-Time: Completing 15 signings per week at the same rate can yield around $6,000 per month.​

These estimates align with data from the National Notary Association, which reports that more than half of full-time mobile Notaries earn $2,000 or more per month, with nearly two-thirds of those in business for at least three years earning $4,000 or more. ​

What Affects Your Income?

Several factors can influence your earnings as a mortgage notary:

• Location: Urban areas may offer more signing opportunities but also come with increased competition.​
• Marketing: Building relationships with local title companies, lenders, and real estate professionals can lead to repeat business and referrals.​
• Service Expansion: Offering additional services, such as mobile notary or loan signing services, can enhance your income potential.​

By understanding these variables and strategically positioning your services, you can optimize your earnings as a mortgage notary in Arizona.

Mortgage Notary vs. Notary Signing Agent

Not all notaries handle real estate transactions. While a notary public can notarize a variety of documents, a notary signing agent (NSA) specializes in mortgage loan signings. Understanding the differences between these roles can help you decide the best path for your career.

Aspect	Notary Public	Notary Signing Agent
Role	Verifies identities; witnesses signatures on various documents.	Specializes in loan documents; guides borrowers through signing process.
Scope of Work	Handles diverse documents: affidavits, wills, contracts, etc.	Focuses on real estate: mortgages, refinancing, and loan closings.
Training	Requires basic state-mandated certification.	Needs additional training in loan document handling and mortgage processes.
Income Potential	Earns standard fees per notarization, often state-regulated.	Commands higher fees per loan signing due to specialized expertise.
Clientele	Serves general public, businesses, and legal entities.	Works closely with title companies, mortgage lenders, and real estate professionals.

If you’re looking for higher earning potential and steady work in the real estate industry, becoming a notary signing agent is the ideal choice.

Get Your Arizona Notary Bond and Start Today

The first step to becoming a mortgage notary in Arizona is securing your $5,000 surety bond. Arizona law requires this bond to protect the public and ensure that notaries follow ethical and legal standards.
At TMD, we make the process easy with instant approval, competitive pricing, and a hassle-free application. Once you have your bond, you can complete your notary application and start your journey toward becoming a notary signing agent.

Don’t wait—get your Arizona notary bond today and launch your mortgage notary business!

Get Your Notary Bond Today

FAQs About Mortgage Notaries in Arizona

Here are answers to some of the most common questions about becoming a mortgage notary in Arizona.

Who Can Notarize Mortgage Documents?

A notary signing agent (NSA) is trained to notarize mortgage loan documents. While a notary public can notarize these documents, an NSA has specialized knowledge of real estate transactions and works closely with lenders, title companies, and escrow officers.

Who Regulates Mortgage Notaries in Arizona?

The Arizona Secretary of State oversees notary public commissions and ensures compliance with state laws and regulations. Mortgage notaries must follow Arizona notary laws and any additional requirements from lenders or title companies.

Is Notary Training or an Exam Required?

Arizona does not require notary training or an exam to become a notary public. However, if you want to work as a notary signing agent, additional training in loan document handling is highly recommended to increase your expertise and job opportunities.

Can You Notarize Mortgage Documents Online in Arizona?

Yes. Arizona allows remote online notarization (RON) for mortgage and loan documents, provided the notary is registered and follows state-approved RON procedures. You must use state-approved platforms and verify signers’ identities through secure technology.

Can I Notarize Mortgage Documents in Another State?

No. As an Arizona notary public, you can only notarize documents within Arizona. If a mortgage transaction involves another state, you can notarize it only if the signer is physically present in Arizona at the time of notarization.

What Disqualifies You From Becoming a Notary?

You may be disqualified from becoming a notary if you:

• Have a felony conviction (unless your civil rights have been restored).
• Have committed notary fraud or other official misconduct.
• Are not a U.S. citizen or legal permanent resident.
• Do not meet Arizona’s residency and age requirements.

Do You Need Errors and Omissions Insurance?

While Errors and Omissions (E&O) insurance is not required by Arizona law, it is highly recommended. This insurance protects notaries from legal and financial liability in case of mistakes or disputes. Many title companies prefer notaries with E&O coverage.

How to Get a Notary Bond in Arizona?

You can purchase a $5,000 notary bond from a surety bond company, insurance provider, or notary association. The cost is typically around $35 and is valid for four years. TMD offers instant approval and hassle-free processing for your notary bond.