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

A real estate notary plays a crucial role in property transactions, ensuring that documents like deeds, mortgage agreements, and loan paperwork are legally verified and properly signed.

In Arizona, where the real estate market is active and growing, the demand for notary publics for real estate continues to rise. This makes becoming a notary in Arizona a great career choice for those looking for flexible, in-demand work in the real estate sector.

This guide will walk you through the entire process, covering Arizona notary requirements, costs, necessary supplies, and career potential. Follow these six easy steps to become an Arizona real estate notary:

Quick Steps to Become an Arizona Real Estate Notary:

1. Meet the Requirements
   1. Be 18+, a U.S. citizen or legal resident, and a resident of Arizona.
2. Get a $5,000 Surety Bond
   1. Purchase from a trusted bond provider like TMD Surety Bonds.
3. Complete the Notary Application
   1. Fill out the official Arizona notary application online.
4. Notarize Your Bond and Oath
   1. Sign both documents in front of an active notary public.
5. Submit Everything
   1. Mail your application, surety bond, and fee to the Arizona Secretary of State.
6. Wait for Approval
   1. Get your notary public commission within 4-6 weeks.
7. Order Notary Supplies
   1. Purchase your Arizona notary stamp and journal to start notarizing.

By the end of this guide, you’ll have a clear roadmap to starting your notarial career in Arizona, whether you want to work independently, with real estate agents, or as a loan signing agent.

What Is a Real Estate Notary?

A real estate notary is a notary public who specializes in verifying and notarizing documents related to property transactions. Their primary responsibility is to ensure that all real estate documents are signed correctly, identities are verified, and the signing process follows Arizona’s notarial laws.

Key Role of a Real Estate Notary

A real estate notary plays a crucial part in protecting buyers, sellers, and lenders from fraudulent transactions. Their duties include:

• Verifying the identities of all signing parties using valid identification.
• Witnessing and notarizing signatures on essential documents such as property deeds, mortgage agreements, loan documents, and title transfers.
• Ensuring document compliance with Arizona state laws and preventing unauthorized alterations.

Because real estate closings often involve large financial transactions, having a trusted notary public for real estate ensures that all parties are legally protected. Many real estate agents, lenders, and title companies rely on real estate notary services to facilitate smooth, legally binding transactions.

Arizona Notary Public Requirements

Becoming a notary public in Arizona is a straightforward process, but you must meet specific state-mandated eligibility criteria before applying. Here’s what you need to qualify:

Eligibility Criteria:

To apply for an Arizona notary commission, you must:

• Be at least 18 years old
• Be a resident of Arizona
• Be a U.S. citizen or legal permanent resident
• Be able to read and write in English
• Have no felony convictions, unless your civil rights have been restored

These requirements ensure that Arizona notaries are qualified to perform notarial acts with integrity and accountability. If you meet these criteria, you can move forward with the application process to become a real estate notary in the state.

Steps to Become a Real Estate Notary in Arizona

Becoming a real estate notary in Arizona involves a straightforward step-by-step process. From purchasing a notary bond to applying with the Arizona Secretary of State, each step ensures you meet the state’s legal requirements. Follow these six steps to get started on your notary career.

Step 1 – Purchase a $5,000 Notary Bond

To become a notary public in Arizona, you must first obtain a $5,000 surety bond. This bond does not protect you—it protects the public in case of errors, fraud, or misconduct while performing notarial duties.

Where to Buy a Notary Bond?

You can purchase your bond from a licensed surety bond provider, such as us! Here at TMD Surety Bonds we’re able to help you get bonded quickly!

Cost: Around $35 for a four-year term
Validity: Your bond remains active for four years, aligning with your notary commission period.

 

Get Your Arizona Notary Bond Here

 

Step 2 – Complete the Arizona Notary Application

Once you have your notary bond, the next step is to complete the official Arizona Notary Application. The application is available online through the Arizona Secretary of State’s website.

Required information:

• Personal details
  • Full name, address, county of residence
• Notary bond information
  • Bonding company name, bond amount, bond issue/expiration dates
• Oath of Office
  • Must be signed and notarized before submission
• Felony disclosure
  • You must disclose any prior felony convictions

Submit the application online or by mail.

Step 3 – Notarize Your Bond Form and Oath of Office

Arizona law requires that both your Notary Bond Form and Oath of Office be notarized before submission. This ensures that your application is legally binding.

• Where to get it notarized:
  • An Arizona notary public, banks, UPS Store, mobile notaries.
  • Some bonding companies offer free notarization if you buy the bond from them.
• Cost: $5–$15.

Step 4 – Submit Your Notary Application and Fees

After completing and notarizing your forms, submit them to the Arizona Secretary of State.

• Application fee: $43.
• Expedited processing (optional): $25 additional fee.
• Submission methods: Online or by mail.
• Processing time:
  • Standard: 4–6 weeks.

Step 5 – Receive Your Notary Commission Certificate

Once your application is approved, the Arizona Secretary of State will mail you a Notary Commission Certificate.

• What to check:
  • Your name (ensure correct spelling).
  • Commission start and expiration date (4-year term).
  • County of residence (matches your application).

With this certificate, you are officially a notary public in Arizona!

Step 6 – Order Your Notary Supplies

Before you can begin notarizing real estate documents, you need official notary supplies that comply with Arizona law.

• Required supplies:
  • Notary seal/stamp – Must meet Arizona legal requirements.
  • Notary journal – Required to record all notarial acts.
  • Fee schedule – Recommended but not mandatory.
• Where to buy: NNA (National Notary Association), Notary Rotary, office supply stores.

Once you have your supplies, you’re ready to start working as an Arizona real estate notary!

What Does a Notary Do in Real Estate?

A real estate notary plays a crucial role in property transactions, ensuring that all documents are legally signed, properly verified, and free from fraud. Their job helps protect buyers, sellers, and lenders by making sure transactions follow Arizona’s legal requirements.

Key Responsibilities of a Real Estate Notary

Verify Identities – Confirm that signers are who they claim to be by checking government-issued identification.

• Witness Signatures – Ensure all parties sign willingly and knowingly, preventing issues like coercion or forgery.
• Check for Accuracy – Review names, dates, and required fields before notarizing to avoid legal complications.
• Administer Oaths – Legally swear in signers when required, confirming they understand the contents of the document.
• Notarize Real Estate Documents – Handle critical paperwork such as deeds, mortgage agreements, loan documents, and title transfers.
• Prevent Fraud – Ensure that signers aren’t under duress or misrepresenting information.
•  Maintain Records – Keep a detailed notary journal to track all notarized transactions, as required by Arizona law.
•  Follow State Laws – Adhere to Arizona notary regulations and guidelines to ensure legal compliance.

Because real estate transactions involve large sums of money and legally binding contracts, having a real estate notary ensures that every document is handled securely, accurately, and in accordance with state law.

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

Becoming a real estate notary in Arizona typically takes 4 to 6 weeks under normal processing times.

If you need to start notarizing real estate documents sooner, Arizona offers expedited processing for an additional $25 fee, which reduces the approval time to 1–2 business days.

The timeline depends on how quickly you complete the application steps, including purchasing a surety bond, notarizing required forms, and submitting your application to the Arizona Secretary of State. To avoid delays, double-check that all forms are correctly filled out before submission.

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

Becoming a real estate notary in Arizona is an affordable investment, with total costs ranging from $135 to $190. The exact amount depends on optional expenses like Errors & Omissions (E&O) insurance and expedited processing fees. Below is a breakdown of the required and optional costs.

Arizona Real Estate Notary Cost Breakdown

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	$19 – $27
Fee schedule (Optional)	$10 – $20
Total Estimated Cost	$135 – $190

While E&O insurance is not required, it provides additional financial protection against notarial errors. Investing in quality notary supplies ensures compliance with Arizona’s legal requirements and enhances your professionalism as a real estate notary.

How Much Do Real Estate Notaries Make in Arizona?

Becoming a real estate notary in Arizona can be a profitable career, whether you work part-time or full-time. Earnings depend on location, client type, and additional services like mobile notary and loan signings.

Typical Earnings for Real Estate Notaries

A real estate notary in Arizona typically earns between $75 and $200 per signing, depending on the type of document, client, and location. Loan signings and mortgage-related notarizations often pay higher fees.

Part-Time vs. Full-Time Income

• Part-time: 5 signings per week at $100 each = $2,000/month.
• Full-time: 15 signings per week at $100 each = $6,000/month.

What Affects Your Income as a Real Estate Notary?

• Location – Notaries in high-demand areas earn more but face more competition.
• Marketing & Networking – Building relationships with real estate agents, title companies, and law firms brings repeat clients and referrals.
• Service Expansion – Offering mobile notary services or specializing in loan signings can increase your earnings significantly.

By leveraging smart marketing strategies and expanding your services, you can maximize your income potential as an Arizona real estate notary.

Real Estate Notary vs. Notary Signing Agent

While both real estate notaries and notary signing agents (NSAs) handle real estate-related documents, their roles, training, and income potential differ. Understanding these differences can help you decide which path best suits your career goals.

Key Differences Between a Real Estate Notary and a Notary Signing Agent

Aspect	Real Estate Notary	Notary Signing Agent
Role	Notarizes real estate documents like deeds and contracts.	Specializes in loan documents and guides borrowers.
Scope of Work	Witnesses signatures on real estate transactions.	Focuses on mortgages, refinancing, and loan closings.
Training	Requires standard notary certification.	Needs extra training in loan document handling.
Income Potential	Earns per notarization, often state-regulated.	Earns higher fees per signing due to expertise.
Clientele	Works with real estate agents, buyers, and sellers.	Works with title companies, lenders, and escrow officers.

 

Which Should You Choose?

• If you only want to notarize real estate documents, a real estate notary role is sufficient.
• If you want to increase your income potential and handle loan closings, becoming a Notary Signing Agent is a great next step.

Many Arizona real estate notaries choose to become NSAs to expand their services and increase their earnings in the real estate industry.

Get Your Arizona Notary Bond and Start Today

The first step to becoming a real estate notary in Arizona is securing your $5,000 surety bond. This bond protects the public, and Arizona law requires it before you submit your application.

Purchase your bond from TMD. We offer instant approval, a hassle-free process, and competitive pricing.

Don’t wait—start your Arizona real estate notary business today!

 

Get Your Arizona Notary Bond Here

 

FAQs About Real Estate Notaries in Arizona

Below are answers to some of the most common questions about becoming a real estate notary in Arizona and what it takes to notarize property-related documents.

Who Can Notarize Real Estate Documents?

Any Arizona notary public can notarize real estate documents, provided they follow state laws and notarial procedures. However, Notary Signing Agents (NSAs) often handle complex loan documents since they receive specialized training.

Who Regulates Real Estate Notaries in Arizona?

The Arizona Secretary of State oversees notary public commissions, sets notarial laws, and enforces compliance regulations for notaries in the state.

Do I Need Notary Training or an Exam?

Arizona does not require training or an exam to become a notary public. However, if you plan to become a Notary Signing Agent, additional training in loan document handling is highly recommended.

Can You Notarize Real Estate Documents Online in Arizona?

Yes, Arizona allows Remote Online Notarization (RON). To perform online notarizations, you must apply for an RON authorization, use a state-approved platform, and follow Arizona’s remote notarization laws.

Can a Regular Notary Notarize Real Estate Documents?

Yes, as long as they follow standard notarial procedures. However, certain lenders and title companies may require a Notary Signing Agent with specialized training for mortgage-related signings.

What Disqualifies You From Becoming a Real Estate Notary?

You may be disqualified if you:

• Have a felony conviction (unless civil rights are restored).
• Submit false or incomplete information on your application.
• Fail to obtain a $5,000 surety bond.

Do You Need Errors and Omissions Insurance?

While not required, Errors & Omissions (E&O) insurance is recommended. It protects you financially in case of notarial errors or legal claims. Coverage typically ranges from $25,000 to $100,000.

How to Get a Notary Bond in Arizona?

You can purchase a $5,000 surety bond from a licensed bond provider like:

• TMD Surety Bonds
• National Notary Association (NNA)
• Arizona insurance agencies

Once you have your bond, you must notarize it and submit it with your notary application to the Arizona Secretary of State.