Notaries work in many business places, including banks, lawyers’ offices, medical facilities and more. They have the training to be an impartial witness for the signing of important documents. Appointed by the state government, notaries screen people who sign documents to ensure they are using their true identity. By checking driver’s licenses, birth certificates or passports, a notary can tell if a person is who they say they are. Here are the steps to becoming a notary public.
Meet State Qualifications
Most states require a person to be at least 18 years of age, a high school graduate and a US citizen. States may want applicants to speak and write English and have no felonies on their record. Before notary embossers are purchased, a lot needs to happen.
Fill Out an Application
An application is required, which collects the information about you. They will need basic information such as your address, phone number and social security number. You will also need to answer questions about your background.
Go Through Training
A training course can teach you all of the nuances of being a notary. Courses take about six weeks to complete. Once the course is complete, you need to pass a state-administered exam. You will receive your commission certificate, which allows you to start practicing.
Buy Notary Supplies
You will need to purchase a notary seal and a notary embosser. A seal is an inked rubber stamp that is placed on the paperwork where required. Some states prefer a notary embosser. This tool is a metal embossing clamp that creates a raised indentation on the paper. An embosser is the traditional notary method and is still often used in conjunction with the rubber stamp. Each seal has it’s own set of rules and regulations depending on the state you are in.
Becoming a notary can be a useful skill for your employer to use as needed.
