New Jersey Notary Guide
How to Become a Notary Public in New Jersey
This guide covers all requirements, costs, processing times, and eligibility criteria to become a commissioned Notary Public in New Jersey.
Steps to Becoming a Notary Public in New Jersey
- Meet New Jersey notary eligibility requirements
- Complete an approved six‑hour notary education course and pass the online exam
- Submit the Notary Commissioning Application (endorsed by a legislator) and pay the filing fee
- Take the oath of office with your county clerk within 90 days
- Receive your Commission Certificate and Oath Qualification Certificate
- Purchase a notary seal or stamp and maintain a journal
- Optionally, register for Remote Online Notarization (RON)
- Renew every five years with continuing education and filing
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New Jersey Notary Public Process
Notaries in New Jersey are appointed for a five-year term, commissioned by the State Treasurer and sworn in at the county level.
Cost to Become a Notary in New Jersey
The total cost varies based on required and optional supplies. Below is a cost breakdown:
| Item | Cost | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Filing Fee | $25 (paper) or $30 (online) | Paid when submitting the application |
| Education Course & Exam | Included + up to $15 exam fee | Mandatory six-hour course and test |
| Oath of Office Fee | $15 | Paid at the county clerk’s office |
| Notary Seal/Stamp | Approximately $30 | Must meet state size and format standards |
| Notary Journal | $30–$55 | Bound or tamper-evident electronic version |
| Total Estimated Cost | $102.50–$132.50+ | Depends on filing method and vendor choices |
Commission Processing Time
After submitting all materials and paying fees, you can expect your Commission Certificate and Oath Qualification within 4–6 weeks.
New Jersey Notary Requirements
To qualify as a Notary Public in New Jersey, applicants must: - Be at least 18 years old - Reside in New Jersey or a bordering state and work in New Jersey - Have no felony convictions unless restored under law - Be able to read and write English
Notary Training & Exam
Non-attorney applicants must complete a six-hour approved notary education course and pass the exam.
For renewals, you must complete a three-hour continuing education course and pass the updated exam.
Application & Oath of Office
Complete and obtain legislator endorsement on the Commissioning Application.
- Pay the filing fee—$25 for paper or $30 online.
- After appointment, present your Certificate and Oath Qualification to the county clerk within 90 days, pay the $15 oath fee, and take the oath.
- Missing this 90-day window requires reapplication.
Commission Certificate & Supplies
To perform notarizations in New Jersey, Notaries need:
- Notary Seal or Stamp – A notary seal or stamp that includes your name, “Notary Public, State of New Jersey,” and commission expiration.
- Notary Journal – A journal (permanent or electronic) to securely document notarial acts.
Renewal Process
Every five years, you must:
- Complete a three-hour continuing education course and exam
- File the renewal application with the fee
- Take the oath again if required
- Failure to renew within 30 days of expiration requires retaking the initial six-hour course and exam.
Remote Online Notarization (RON)
New Jersey allows Remote Online Notarization for commissioned notaries using approved e-notary technology and complying with state requirements.
Conclusion
Becoming a Notary Public in New Jersey involves completing mandatory education, submitting an endorsed application, taking an oath, and obtaining a seal and journal. Once commissioned for five years, you’re fully authorized to notarize documents—and may optionally offer remote notarizations.