How to Become a Notary Public in Ohio

This guide covers all the requirements, costs, timelines, and eligibility criteria you’ll need to commission as a Notary Public in Ohio.

Steps to Becoming a Notary Public in Ohio

Meet Ohio Notary Eligibility Requirements
Complete the Online Education Course & Pass the Exam
Obtain a $10,000 Surety Bond
Submit the Application, Bond, and Certificate via the Online Portal
Receive Your Commission from the Governor
Purchase a Notary Seal/Stamp and Record Book
Renew Every Five Years with Re-education and Bond

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Ohio Notary Public Process

Ohio notary commissions are valid for five years and issued by the Secretary of State under state law. Once commissioned, you can perform acknowledgments, administer oaths, and certify copies.

Cost to Become a Notary in Ohio

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

Item	Cost	Details
Application Fee	$15	Paid online through the official portal
Online Education Course & Exam	$35	Required state-approved training and exam
$10,000 Surety Bond (5-year term)	$50–$75	Mandatory for public protection
Notary Seal/Stamp	$15–$30	Must include name, title, state, and expiration date
Record Book (Journal)	$20–$40	Required for tracking notarial acts
Total Estimated Cost	$135–$195+	Varies depending on provider and supply choices

Commission Processing Time

Once you submit the application, course completion, and bond, processing usually takes 2–3 business days, with the commission issued shortly thereafter.

Ohio Notary Requirements

To qualify, applicants must:

Be at least 18 years old
Be a legal resident of Ohio
Be a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident
Have no felony conviction or have had civil rights restored
Be able to read and write in English

Training & Exam

Ohio requires completion of a state-approved online education course prior to application submission. You must also pass an exam at the end of the course.

Bonding & Submission

Obtain a $10,000 surety bond for a five-year term.
Complete your education and pass the exam to receive a certificate.
Submit the following via the state’s online portal:
- Application form
- $15 application fee
- Education certificate
- Bond documentation

Commission Certificate & Supplies

Upon approval, you’ll receive your notary commission certificate. You’ll then need to purchase:

Notary Seal or Stamp – A seal or stamp in compliance with Ohio specifications
Notary Journal – A record book (journal) in which to document each notarial act

Renewal Process

Ohio notaries must renew every five years. Renewal includes:

Repeating the online education course and passing the exam
Obtaining a new $10,000 surety bond
Paying the $15 renewal fee
Submitting all materials via the online portal

Conclusion

Becoming a Notary Public in Ohio involves education, bonding, online application, and standard supplies. Once commissioned, you’ll be authorized to notarize for a five-year term.