Rhode Island Notary Public Information

Becoming a notary public in Rhode Island requires meeting state eligibility requirements, submitting an application, and following the commissioning process.

Steps to Becoming a Rhode Island Notary Public

Meet Rhode Island Notary Eligibility Requirements
Complete the Rhode Island Notary Public Application
Obtain the Required Endorsements
Submit Your Application and Fee
Receive Your Notary Commission Certificate
Take the Oath of Office
Purchase a Notary Seal and Journal

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Become a Notary public today!

Rhode Island Notary Public Process

Becoming a Notary Public in Rhode Island allows you to provide essential services for legal, financial, and business transactions. A Rhode Island Notary Commission is valid for four years before requiring renewal.

Cost to Become a Notary in Rhode Island

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

Item	Cost	Details
Application Fee	$80	Paid to the Rhode Island Secretary of State.
Notary Seal or Stamp	$20 - $50	Required for performing notarizations in Rhode Island.
Notary Journal	$15 - $40	Recommended for keeping records of notarizations.
Training Course (Optional)	$25 - $100	Online training covering Rhode Island notary laws and best practices.
Total Cost	$115 - $270	Varies depending on supplies and training.

Rhode Island Commission Processing Time

The Rhode Island Secretary of State typically processes notary applications within 2-4 weeks. Processing times may vary depending on workload and application volume.

Rhode Island Notary Requirements

To qualify as a Notary Public in Rhode Island, applicants must:

Be at least 18 years old
Be a resident of Rhode Island or have a place of business in the state
Have no felony convictions or crimes involving fraud or dishonesty
Be able to read and write in English

Who Is Ineligible to Become a Notary in Rhode Island?

Certain individuals are not eligible to become a Notary Public in Rhode Island, including:

Those with felony convictions related to fraud, dishonesty, or moral turpitude
Applicants who have been previously revoked or denied a commission due to misconduct

Notary Training Requirements

Is training required in Rhode Island?
No, Rhode Island does not require training, but an optional Notary Public Course is recommended to understand state laws and best practices.

Is an exam required to become a Notary in Rhode Island?
No, Rhode Island does not require a notary exam for commissioning.

Rhode Island Notary Supplies

To perform notarizations in Rhode Island, Notaries need:

Notary Seal or Stamp – Must include the notary’s name and commission expiration date.
Notary Journal – While not required, it is strongly recommended for maintaining accurate records of notarial acts.

Renewing a Rhode Island Notary Commission

Rhode Island Notary commissions last four years. To renew:

Submit a renewal application before your commission expires.
Pay the required renewal fee to the Rhode Island Secretary of State.

Remote Online Notarization (RON) in Rhode Island

Rhode Island allows Notaries to perform Remote Online Notarization (RON) under specific regulations. To become a Remote Notary:

Hold an active Rhode Island Notary Commission.
Register with the Rhode Island Secretary of State for RON approval.
Use an approved RON technology provider.
Follow Rhode Island’s remote notarization laws.

Rhode Island RON Notaries may charge a fee for remote notarizations as permitted by state law.

Conclusion

Becoming a Notary Public in Rhode Island is a great opportunity to serve your community and expand your professional skills. By following the step-by-step application process, securing the necessary supplies, and understanding state requirements, you can start your notarial career with confidence.