How to Become a Notary Public in Oregon

This guide covers all the requirements, costs, timelines, and qualifications to become a Notary Public in Oregon.

Steps to Becoming a Notary Public in Oregon

Meet eligibility requirements
Complete the mandatory notary training course
Pass the Notary Public examination
Submit the online application and pay the filing fee
Take and sign the oath of office, then mail the signed application
Wait for commission approval (usually 4–6 weeks)
Purchase your official notary stamp and a journal
Renew every four years

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Oregon Notary Public Process

Commissions last four years.
You must complete a required training and exam—training is waived if renewing with an active commission.
You must maintain a journal for notarial acts.
No bond is required, though E&O insurance is recommended.
A criminal background check is performed as part of the application process.
You may notarize anywhere in Oregon; nonresidents must work within the state.

Cost to Become a Notary in Oregon

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

Item	Cost	Details
Training Course	Included	Mandatory for new applicants
Filing Fee	$40	Submitted with application
Notary Stamp	$15–$35	Must meet state format requirements
Notary Journal	$10–$40	Required by law for all notarizations
Total Estimated Cost	$65–$115+	Depends on stamp and journal options

Commission Processing Time

Commission approval typically takes 4–6 weeks from the date the signed application is mailed.

Oregon Notary Requirements

Must be at least 18 years old
Must live in Oregon or work in Oregon
Must read and write English
No felony or fraud convictions within the last 10 years
No notary commission revoked within the last 10 years

Training & Exam

All new applicants must take the free “Notary Basics” training course.
You must pass the official open-book exam online.
Renewing notaries may skip training if they complete the exam and apply before their current term expires.

Application & Oath

Complete the online application and pay the $40 fee.
Print and sign the oath section before a notary public.
Mail the signed form back within 30 days to validate your application.

Supplies Required

To perform notarizations in Oregan, Notaries need:

Notary Seal or Stamp – Must include the notary’s name and commission expiration date.
Notary Journal – A bound recordbook required for every notarization.

No Bond Required; Insurance Optional

Oregon does not require a surety bond.
Errors and omissions insurance is recommended for legal protection.

Renewal Process

You may apply to renew your commission up to 30 days before expiration.
Renewals require passing the exam and paying the $40 fee; training waived if applied on time.
Keep a journal and stamp updated for the next four-year term.

Conclusion

Becoming a Notary Public in Oregon involves meeting eligibility, completing required training, passing an exam, and applying with an oath and fee. With a four-year commission, stamp, and journal, you’ll be legally empowered for statewide notarial acts.