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

Becoming a notary public in Arizona is a great way to provide essential services in legal, financial, and business transactions. Notaries play a crucial role in verifying signatures, preventing fraud, and ensuring the authenticity of documents.

The process to become an Arizona notary is straightforward but requires meeting state requirements, securing an Arizona notary bond, and completing the official application process. Below is a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the process smoothly.

Quick Steps to Become an Arizona Notary Public:

1. Meet Notary Requirements – Be at least 18 years old, a U.S. citizen or legal resident, and a resident of Arizona.
2. Get a $5,000 Surety Bond – Purchase your Arizona notary bond from a trusted provider like TMD.
3. Complete the Notary Application – Fill out the online form provided by the Arizona Secretary of State.
4. Notarize Your Bond – Sign your surety bond in front of a notary public in Arizona.
5. Submit Everything – Mail your notary application, surety bond, and filing fee to the Arizona Secretary of State.
6. Wait for Approval – The processing time is about 4-6 weeks.
7. Buy Your Notary Stamp and Journal – Once approved, purchase your official notary stamp and required journal to begin notarizing.

 

Get Your Arizona Notary Bond Here

 

Now, let’s go through each step in detail.

Arizona Notary Public Requirements

Who Can Become a Notary in Arizona?

Before starting the notary application process, you must meet specific Arizona notary requirements set by the state. These eligibility criteria ensure that only qualified individuals can serve as notary publics in Arizona.

Eligibility Criteria:

• Be at least 18 years old – You must be a legal adult to apply.
• Be a U.S. citizen or legal permanent resident – Proof of citizenship or residency is required.
• Be an Arizona resident – You must live in Arizona and provide a valid address.
• Be able to read and write in English – This ensures you can understand and complete official notarial duties.
• Have no felony convictions – If you have a felony record, your civil rights must be restored before applying.

Meeting these requirements is the first step toward obtaining your Arizona notary commission. If you qualify, the next step is to secure your Arizona notary bond.

Steps to Become a Notary in Arizona

Your Path to Becoming an Arizona Notary

Becoming a notary public in Arizona involves completing a few key steps, from securing an Arizona notary bond to submitting your application and ordering your official supplies. Follow this step-by-step guide to ensure a smooth and successful application process.

Step 1 – Purchase a $5,000 Notary Bond

Before applying, you must purchase a $5,000 Arizona notary bond, which protects the public from potential mistakes or misconduct.

• Purpose: A notary bond ensures financial protection for the public if a notary makes an error or commits fraud.
• Where to buy: Notary bonding companies, insurance providers, or the National Notary Association (NNA).
• Cost: Approximately $35.
• Validity: The bond remains active for four years, aligning with your notary commission term.

Step 2 – Complete the Arizona Notary Application

Once you have your notary bond, the next step is completing the Arizona Notary Public Application on the Arizona Secretary of State’s website.

Your application must include:
✅ Personal details (name, address, and county of residence).
✅ Notary bond information (bonding company, bond amount, and effective/expiration dates).
✅ Oath of Office (must be notarized before submission).
✅ Disclosure of felony convictions, if applicable.

You can submit the application online or by mail to the Arizona Secretary of State.

Step 3 – Notarize Your Bond Form and Oath of Office

Before submitting your application, Arizona law requires that your Notary Bond Form and Oath of Office be notarized.

Where to get it notarized:

• Any Arizona notary public
• Banks (some offer free notary services for account holders)
• UPS Store locations
• Mobile notaries for convenience
• Cost: Typically $5–$15 (some bonding companies offer free notarization if you purchase your bond from them).

Step 4 – Submit Your Notary Application and Fees

Now that your notary bond and application are complete, submit them to the Arizona Secretary of State.

• Application Fee: $43
• Expedited Processing (Optional): Check with your state to see what options they have available.
• Submission Methods:
• Online – Faster processing
• By Mail – Send to the Arizona Secretary of State’s office
• Processing Time
  • Standard: 4–6 weeks
  • Expedited: Check with your state to see what options they have available.

Step 5 – Receive Your Notary Commission Certificate

If your application is approved, you will receive your Notary Commission Certificate by mail.

What to check upon receiving your certificate:

• Correct spelling of your name (matches your application).
• Commission start and expiration dates (4-year term).
• County of residence (must match your application details).

Step 6 – Order Your Notary Supplies

To begin notarizing, you must purchase the required Arizona notary supplies that comply with state regulations.

Required Supplies & Estimated Costs:

• Notary Seal/Stamp – $30–$50 (must meet Arizona legal requirements).
• Notary Journal – $30–$55 (required to record all notarial acts).
• Fee Schedule – $10–$20 (recommended but not mandatory).
• Where to Buy: National Notary Association (NNA), Notary Rotary, office supply stores.
• Total Estimated Cost: $155–$180

With these steps completed, you’ll be officially ready to perform notarial duties in Arizona!

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

The standard processing time to become a notary public in Arizona is 4–6 weeks from the time you submit your application.
If you need to become a notary faster, expedited processing may be available to you in Arizona. Check with your provider.
To speed up the process, ensure your Arizona notary application is complete, your notary bond is properly notarized, and all required fees are submitted correctly.

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

Becoming a notary public in Arizona typically costs between $128 and $190, depending on optional expenses like Errors & Omissions (E&O) Insurance and expedited processing. Below is a breakdown of the required and optional costs.

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

Costs may vary depending on the provider you choose for your notary bond and supplies. While E&O Insurance is optional, it provides added protection against mistakes and potential legal claims.

How Much Can an Arizona Notary Charge?

Arizona notary publics can charge a maximum fee of $10 per notarial act, as set by state law. However, notaries can also charge additional fees for travel and other optional services.

Notary Fee Breakdown:

• Standard Notarial Act: Up to $10 per signature notarized.
• Travel Fees: Notaries may charge for travel, but fees must be disclosed in advance to the signer.
• Additional Services: Some notaries offer services like printing, document preparation, or mobile notary services, which can have separate fees.

For mobile notaries, travel fees typically depend on distance and time, and some may set a minimum service fee. Always confirm costs before scheduling a notary appointment.

Get Your Arizona Notary Bond and Start Today

The first step to becoming a notary public in Arizona is securing your $5,000 surety bond. This bond is required by the state and ensures financial protection for the public in case of notarial errors or misconduct.

At TMD, we make it easy to get your Arizona notary bond with:

• Instant approval – No long wait times.
•  Hassle-free process – Quick and simple online application.
•  Competitive pricing – Get your bond at an affordable rate.

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

FAQs About Becoming a Notary in Arizona

Got questions about becoming a notary public in Arizona? Here are answers to some of the most common concerns.

Who Regulates Notaries in Arizona?

The Arizona Secretary of State oversees notary public commissions, application processing, and compliance with Arizona notary laws. They also handle complaints and ensure notaries follow proper procedures.

Is Notary Training or an Exam Required?

No, Arizona does not require notary training or an exam to obtain a notary commission. However, it’s highly recommended to take a notary course through the National Notary Association (NNA) or other professional organizations to better understand notarial duties and responsibilities.

What Disqualifies You From Becoming a Notary?

You may be disqualified if you:

• Have a felony conviction (unless your civil rights are restored).
• Are not a U.S. citizen or legal resident.
• Are not an Arizona resident.
• Are unable to read or write in English.

What Is a Remote Notary?

A remote notary performs notarizations online using audio-video technology instead of in-person meetings. Arizona allows Remote Online Notarization (RON), but you must meet additional requirements, including:

• Holding a traditional notary commission.
• Registering with the Arizona Secretary of State as a remote notary.
• Using an approved RON platform.

Do You Need Errors and Omissions Insurance?

No, Errors & Omissions (E&O) Insurance is not required in Arizona, but it is highly recommended. This insurance protects you from financial liability if a mistake occurs during a notarization. Policies typically range from $25 to $100 depending on coverage limits.

How to Get a Notary Bond in Arizona?

To purchase your $5,000 Arizona notary bond, follow these steps:

• Choose a licensed surety bond provider like TMD.
• Complete a quick online application.
• Get instant approval and receive your bond.

Notarize your bond and submit it with your notary application.