Vermont Notary Guide
How to Become a Notary Public in Vermont
This guide covers all the requirements, costs, processing times, and eligibility criteria you need to become a Notary Public in Vermont.
Steps to Becoming a Notary Public in Vermont
- Meet Vermont notary eligibility requirements
- Take the oath of office before a notary or justice of the peace
- Complete the online notary application and upload your signed oath
- Pay the $30 application fee
- Pass the Vermont jurisprudence exam
- Receive your commission certificate online
- Purchase your notary seal and (optional) journal
- Renew every two years before January 31 of odd-numbered years
Become a Vermont Notary Public
Get started as a Notary Public today!
Vermont Notary Public Process
Becoming a Notary in Vermont involves an online application, an oath of office, and passing a short exam. Once commissioned, notaries are authorized to perform a variety of official duties for a two-year term. Vermont does not require a notary bond, and notaries are not legally required to maintain a journal, although it is strongly recommended.
Cost to Become a Notary in Vermont
The total cost varies based on required and optional supplies. Below is a cost breakdown:
| Item | Cost | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Application Fee | $30 | Paid during online application |
| Jurisprudence Exam | Included | Completed during application process |
| Notary Seal/Stamp | $15 – $25 | Required to perform notarizations |
| Notary Journal (Optional) | $10 – $50 | Recommended for accurate recordkeeping |
| Total Estimated Cost | $55 – $105+ | Varies by vendor and optional items |
Commission Processing Time
Processing typically takes 3–5 business days after the application, exam, and oath of office are received.
Vermont Notary Requirements
To qualify, applicants must:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Be a U.S. citizen or legal resident
- Reside or work in Vermont
- Be able to read and write in English
- Have no disqualifying criminal history
- Not have had a notary commission revoked in the past
Oath of Office
Applicants must take the official oath of office before a Vermont notary or justice of the peace. This signed oath must be uploaded as part of the online application. No separate oath-filing at a clerk’s office is required.
Notary Exam
A short jurisprudence exam is required and is completed online during the application. It covers Vermont notary laws and practices. A passing score is required to be commissioned.
Vermont Notary Supplies
To perform notarizations in Vermont, Notaries need:
Notary Seal or Stamp – Required for notarizing documents. Must include your name, the words “Notary Public,” and your commission expiration date.
Notary Journal – Strongly recommended for maintaining accurate records, even though not required by state law.
Renewing a Vermont Notary Commission
Notary commissions in Vermont expire on January 31 of every odd-numbered year, regardless of issue date. To renew:
- Submit a new online application before expiration
- Pay the $30 renewal fee
- Take and upload a new oath of office
- Retake the jurisprudence exam (unless exempted)
- Order a new seal with your updated expiration date
Conclusion
Becoming a Notary Public in Vermont is a simple process involving eligibility, an oath, an online application, and a brief exam. With a commission valid for two years, Vermont notaries play an important role in legal and business documentation. Following the required steps and maintaining professionalism will ensure a successful commission.