How to Become a Notary Public in Massachusetts

This guide covers all the requirements, costs, processing times, and eligibility criteria you need to get started.

Steps to Become a Notary in Massachusetts

To become a Notary Public in Massachusetts, you must complete the following steps:

Meet the State’s Eligibility Requirements
Complete the Massachusetts Notary Application
Obtain Required Signatures and Notarization
Submit the Application to the Governor’s Council
Await Commission Approval
Take the Oath of Office
Purchase Required Notary Supplies

Ready to get started?

Become a Massachusetts Notary public today!

About the Massachusetts Notary Process

Becoming a Notary Public in Massachusetts allows you to serve as an impartial witness in the execution of legal documents. In Massachusetts, a Notary Public commission is valid for seven years, after which you must renew your commission to continue serving.

Below, we outline the key details about the application process, eligibility criteria, costs, and other essential information.

Cost to Become a Notary in Massachusetts

The total cost to become a Notary Public in Massachusetts ranges from $60 to $150, depending on optional supplies. Here’s a breakdown of typical expenses:

Item	Cost	Details
Application Fee	$60	Paid when submitting your application to the Governor’s Council.
Notary Journal	$20 - $50	Required for recording all notarial acts.
Notary Seal or Stamp	$15 - $30	A Massachusetts Notary must use an official seal or stamp.
Notary Public Association Course	$25	Offered by the Notary Public Association, providing comprehensive preparation.
Total Estimated Cost	$85 - $175	Depending on optional supplies.

Full Course + Exam Resources:

Massachusetts Notary Processing Time

The application processing time varies but typically takes 4 to 6 weeks after submission. The Governor’s Council reviews all applications and grants commissions at its discretion.

Massachusetts Notary Requirements

To qualify as a Notary Public in Massachusetts, applicants must meet the following criteria:

Age: Be at least 18 years old.
Residency: Be a resident of Massachusetts or have a primary place of business in the state.
Moral Character: Demonstrate good moral character and integrity.
Criminal History: Not have any felony convictions or other offenses that could affect credibility as a Notary Public.
Application Endorsement: Obtain endorsements from four Massachusetts residents, one of whom must be a lawyer.

Who Is Ineligible to Become a Notary in Massachusetts?

Certain individuals are ineligible to serve as a Notary Public in Massachusetts:

Applicants with disqualifying criminal records.
Individuals who fail to obtain the required signatures on their application.
Anyone whose application is denied by the Governor’s Council.

Notary Training Requirements

Massachusetts does not require a formal training course or exam for Notary applicants. However, applicants must thoroughly understand Massachusetts Notary Public laws, responsibilities, and best practices.

The Notary Public Association Massachusetts Course covers all laws, responsibilities, and best practices and is highly recomended when starting your notary career.

The Secretary of the Commonwealth provides guidance on Massachusetts Notary laws, and studying these rules is essential for performing notarial acts correctly and avoiding legal issues.

Application Process

To officially apply for a Notary Public commission in Massachusetts, you must:

Complete the Application Form – Available on the Massachusetts Secretary of the Commonwealth’s website.
Obtain Four Signatures – Three signatures from Massachusetts residents and one from a practicing Massachusetts attorney.
Get Your Application Notarized – Before submission, your application must be notarized.
Submit the Application and Pay the Fee – Mail your application along with the $60 fee to the Governor’s Council.
Await Approval and Take the Oath – If approved, you will receive instructions on how to take the Oath of Office before your commission becomes official.

Notary Supplies

Massachusetts Notaries are required to maintain a record of all notarial acts. The following supplies are recommended:

Notary Journal (Required)

A Notary Journal is essential for keeping a record of every notarial act you perform. This provides legal protection and serves as proof of proper conduct.

Notary Stamp or Seal (Required)

Massachusetts Notaries must use an official Notary Seal or Stamp on all notarized documents. The seal must include:

The Notary’s Name as it appears on the commission
The Words “Notary Public”
Commonwealth of Massachusetts
Commission Expiration Date

Conclusion

Becoming a Notary Public in Massachusetts is a valuable opportunity to serve the community while enhancing your professional skills. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you will be well-prepared to navigate the process successfully.

With proper preparation, adherence to Massachusetts Notary laws, and commitment to ethical practices, you can confidently serve as a trusted Notary Public in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.