How to Become a Notary Public in New Mexico

This guide covers all steps, costs, timelines, and legal requirements to become a commissioned Notary Public in New Mexico.

Steps to Becoming a Notary Public in New Mexico

Meet eligibility requirements
Complete the required notary education course and pass the exam
Purchase a $10,000 surety bond
Take the official oath of office and have it notarized
Submit the online application, including course certificate, bond, oath, and $30 fee
After appointment, register your official seal within 45 days
Obtain your commission certificate
Purchase your notary seal and a journal
Renew every four years following the same process

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New Mexico Notary Public Process

Notary commissions are valid for four years
You must complete training and pass a notary exam
All documents are submitted electronically
Seal registration must be completed within 45 days of appointment
Errors and omissions insurance is optional but recommended
You must maintain a journal of all notarial acts

Cost to Become a Notary in New Mexico

The total cost varies based on required and optional supplies. Below is a cost breakdown:

Item	Cost	Details
Application Fee	$30	Paid to the state when submitting your application
Notary Education & Exam	Included	Mandatory for all applicants
$10,000 Surety Bond	$50–$130	Required for commission approval
Notary Seal	$15–$35	Must meet state requirements
Notary Journal	$20–$50	Required by state law
Total Estimated Cost	$115–$245	Varies based on provider and supplies

New Mexico Commission Processing Time

Most applications are processed within 2 to 10 weeks once all documentation is submitted and complete.

New Mexico Notary Requirements

To qualify as a Notary Public in New Mexico, applicants must:

Be at least 18 years old
Be a resident of New Mexico or have a place of employment in the state
Be able to read and write English
Not have any felony convictions related to dishonesty in the last five years
Not have had a notary commission revoked in any jurisdiction

Notary Education & Exam

All applicants must complete a mandatory education course
The exam requires a passing score of at least 80%
The exam is multiple choice and based on the course content

Bond, Oath & Seal Requirements

You must obtain a $10,000 surety bond
The oath of office must be completed and notarized
After commission approval, you must register your notary seal within 45 days

Alaska Notary Supplies

To perform notarizations in Alaska, Notaries need:

Notary Seal or Stamp – The seal must include: your name, “Notary Public – State of New Mexico,” commission number, and expiration date
Notary Journal – You must keep a journal of all notarial acts

Renewing an New Mexico Notary Commission

Re-complete the education course and exam
Submit a new bond and oath of office
Reapply and pay the renewal fee
Register a new seal if necessary

Conclusion

Becoming a Notary Public in New Mexico involves education, a bond, registration, and careful recordkeeping. Once appointed, you’ll be ready to serve your community with official notarial services for four years.