How To Become A Notary Public
The office of notary public is one that holds the distinguished honor of a public servant with a long history dating back to Roman times. A notary public is someone who is legally commissioned and empowered by either the state or local government to witness signatures and certify the validity of a document. He or she can authenticate documents using an official signature and embossing tool known as a seal. Other titles for notary public include notary or public notary.
What Does a Notary Public Do?
While the list of duties and responsibilities of a notary public vary from state to state, the most common task of a notary public is to observe and verify signatures and identities for official, legal documents. Notary publics also perform various public services regarding estates, deeds, and powers-of-attorney. A notary public may be able to execute jurats for affidavits and depositions, collect sworn statements, as well as administer oaths. Notary publics charge a fee for services that is usually set by the state and are held legally liable if the documents notarized are not legitimate or the identities of signing parties cannot be verified.
What Can a Notary Public Not Do?
A notary public cannot pre-date an action prior to the actual date of execution and signature date that appears on the document. A notary cannot lend his or her seal to another person. Notary publics cannot advise on legal matters or act as a representative in a legal proceeding.
How Does One Become a Notary Public?
The rules and regulations for becoming a notary public are different in each state. Some states require a proctored test on policies and procedures to be passed by the individual seeking to become a notary public. Other states do not require an exam and will allow any resident over the age of 18 with only one day of residency to apply. Notaries are to be people of integrity with a high level of respect for the legal process who have never been convicted of a crime or felony.
The first step in becoming a notary public is to fill out an application for a notary commission from the state. This can also be done with the National Notary Association (NNA). The National Notary Association website gives details on eligibility, fees, provisions for each state. This can be found at www.nationalnotary.org.
Some states will require a filing fee, fingerprinting, attending classes, or an examination before one can be certified as a notary public. Make sure all steps of the application process have been accurately followed and completed.
Once the application has been accepted, a candidate must take an oath of office in front of a notary public.
The final step in getting commissioned is to purchase an official notary seal. Some states may require the use of an official rubber stamp on documents. The length of time of a notary’s certification is also set by the state but typically is around five years. Be sure to keep track of the time requirements set for becoming reappointed as a notary.
How Can One Progress as a Notary Public?
Business cards, brochures, pamphlets, and flyers are a great way to advertise notary public services. Give them to local neighborhood businesses, especially those whose customers will require legal verification. Place an advertisement in the local phone book and/or newspaper that details the services offered. Don’t forget about the traditional forms of advertising such as billboards, radio or television ads.
Word of mouth, referrals, and online advertising are marketing options that should not be overlooked. Give clients extra business cards to pass along to friends who may be in need of notary services. Useful items such as calendars or refrigerator magnets can serve as good advertising tools. Create a website to market your services. Join one or several online notary signing agent directories.
Most importantly, keep clients satisfied by being professional, punctual, and flexible. Stay up to date with the notary requirements, laws, policies, and procedures of the state. Stay current with new trends such as electronic notarization. Consider advancing your notary training through online or distance education courses. Never do anything that would compromise the integrity or professionalism of your position as a notary public.
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