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This guide explains all the requirements, costs, timelines, and eligibility steps needed to become a commissioned Notary Public in Pennsylvania.
Meet eligibility requirements
Complete a three-hour pre-approved notary education course
Submit the online application and pay the $42 filing fee
Pass the state-administered notary exam
Obtain and submit a $10,000 surety bond within 45 days of appointment
Take your oath of office, record your bond, commission, and signature at the county recorder’s office within 45 days
Purchase your official notary seal/stamp and journal
Renew every four years following the same steps
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A Pennsylvania notary commission is valid for four years. Notaries are authorized to perform acknowledgments, administer oaths and affirmations, witness signatures, certify copies, and note protests. You must file your bond and oath within 45 days of appointment or your commission becomes void.
The total cost varies based on required and optional supplies. Below is a cost breakdown:
| Item | Cost | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Education Course | $85 | Three-hour required notary training |
| Application Fee | $42 | Submitted with your application |
| Notary Exam | $65 | Computer-based exam |
| Surety Bond | $30–$55 | $10,000 bond required by state |
| Oath & Bond Recording | $32–$106 | County filing fees vary |
| Notary Seal/Stamp | $30 | Must meet Pennsylvania standards |
| Notary Journal | $30–$55 | Required for recordkeeping |
| Total Estimated Cost | $314–$438 | Includes training, exam, and supplies |
After submitting your application and passing the exam, your commission typically processes within 1–3 weeks. You must file your bond and take the oath within 45 days of appointment.
To qualify as a Notary Public in Pennsylvania, applicants must:
Be at least 18 years old
Be a legal U.S. citizen or permanent resident
Live or work in Pennsylvania
Be able to read and write English
Not have had a notary commission revoked in the last five years
Have good moral character and no disqualifying criminal history
All first-time and renewing applicants must complete a three-hour approved notary education course. A passing score is required on a state-administered computer-based exam. Applicants may retake the exam if they do not pass on the first attempt.
You must purchase a $10,000 surety bond and file it with your local county recorder of deeds within 45 days of receiving your appointment notice. You’ll also take the oath of office and file your commission and signature at the same time.
To perform notarizations in Alaska, Notaries need:
Notary Seal or Stamp – Purchase a rubber stamp seal with your name, title, commission number, and expiration date.
Notary Journal – Use a permanently bound journal or approved electronic format to log each notarization you perform.
Pennsylvania notaries must renew every four years. The renewal process includes:
Retaking the three-hour education course
Reapplying through the state
Submitting a new bond
Passing the exam (if required)
Refiling your bond and oath with the county
Becoming a Notary Public in Pennsylvania involves training, testing, bonding, and filing your commission. Once commissioned, you’ll be able to serve your community by performing trusted notarial acts across the Commonwealth.
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