How to Get a Notary Public License in Arkansas

Arkansas notary publics are appointed and commissioned by the Secretary of State (SoS) and serve as impartial witnesses in the signing of legal documents such as wills, property deeds, marriage licenses and adoption papers.

You must complete the licensing process before becoming a commissioned notary public according to Arkansas Code. Learn how to get your Arkansas notary public license with this complete guide.

How Do I Become a Notary Public in Arkansas?

To become a notary public in Arkansas, follow these ten steps.

Step 1: Verify your eligibility

You must meet the following requirements set in place by the Secretary of State to be eligible for a notary public license in Arkansas:

Be at least 18 years old
Be a legal resident of Arkansas
Be a U.S. citizen
Read and write in English
Not been revoked of a prior notary commission in the past 10 years
Have no felonies
Understand laws and duties of a notary public

If you are not a legal resident of Arkansas, you can still apply to be a notary if you meet one of the following requirements:

Reside in an adjoining state and are employed by or operate a business in Arkansas
Have a U.S. military service member spouse who works at or owns a business in Arkansas

Step 2: Purchase a $7,500 surety bond

The SoS requires all Arkansas notary public licensees to purchase a $7,500 surety bond to ensure ethical business practices. Buy your Arkansas notary bond instantly online for just $50. For an additional premium, you can purchase supplemental errors and omissions insurance coverage.

Be sure to file your original notary bond with the county recorder of deeds. You’ll provide a copy to the SoS when you apply online.

List your name on the bond application exactly as you want it to appear on your official seal of office.

Step 3: Create an Arkansas SoS account

Next, make an account with the SoS Notary Management System to take your exam and apply. Please note, if you created an account prior to January 25, 2024 you must create a new one.

Step 4: Pass the notary exam

Take the online multiple choice notary exam. You need a 80% score to pass and receive access to the application.

Step 5: Submit your application

After passing the exam, you’ll be automatically directed to apply. You’ll need to include the following in your application:

An electronic signature exactly as seen on your surety bond
Copies of your surety bond and notary exam certificate
Your residential address*

*There are additional application requirements for non-residents.

Make sure the name on your application matches the name on all other documents. Submit your application and the $20 filing fee and print your receipt. Refer to the Notary Public Handbook for more information.

Step 7: Receive your Oath of Commission Certificates

You will be issued two Oath of Commission Certificates once your application is approved. Review your certificates for accuracy.

Step 8: Visit your county’s recorder of deeds

Next, bring your commission certificates and surety bond to your county commission office. You and the circuit or county clerk will sign both certificate copies, officially swearing you in as notary public.

The clerk will apply their file mark and file your certificate and original bond. You’ll receive one of the original completed oath of commission certificates to file with the SoS.

Step 9: File your oath with the Secretary of State

Your commission will not be valid until you file your second oath of commission certificate with the Secretary of State at the following address:

Arkansas Secretary of State

Business and Commercial Services

1401 W Capitol Avenue, Suite 250

Little Rock, AR 72201

Step 10: Purchase supplies

Finally, purchase your seal of office. You may also wish to get a notary journal to record notarial acts if called upon in court. For specific notary seal requirements, refer to the Notary Public Handbook.

How to Renew Your Arkansas Notary Public License

Arkansas notary public commissions last for 10-year terms. To renew your license, file an amendment through your online notary account. You can begin filing within 60 days of your expiration date.

You’ll follow the same process as your original application:

Pass the notary exam
Get a new $7,500 surety bond
Pay the $20 application fee
File your certificates and oath

How Much Does It Cost to Get a Notary Public License in Arkansas?

The cost of becoming an Arkansas notary public is typically around $150–$200 in total. You can expect the following expenses:

Application fee: $20
Surety bond: $50–$170*
Supplies: Varies, typically $40–$70

Each county will also charge a small certificate and bond filing fee at their discretion. Exact pricing will vary depending on the surety bond and notary supply vendors you choose.

*This estimate reflects SuretyBonds.com notary bond rates plus E&O coverage options.

How to Become an eNotary in Arkansas

As a licensed notary public, you are eligible to apply for an electronic notary commission in Arkansas. To register as an eNotary in Arkansas, complete the following steps:

Complete the online application and pay the $25 fee
Complete the eNotary training and exam and pay the $30 fee
Register with an approved solution provider
Complete continuing training every two years

Your eNotary license will expire with your traditional commission.

How to Get Your Apostille & Certificate of Authentication

In addition to your notary public license, you can request to get your Arkansas Apostille and Certificate of Authentication. An apostille is added to international documents to verify legality, validity and authenticity.

Unlike a notary, apostilles attest for the document itself and not just the signatures. To request this ability, complete the online request form.

What Is a Facsimile Signature and Do I Need One in Arkansas?

If you perform certain commercial notarizations often, you may use a facsimile signature in place of a manual signature and seal. If you choose to do so, you must file the registration form with the Secretary of State.

You’ll need to include the information below on the form:

Your manual signature
A description of the type of commercial documents being notarized
The name, written consent and signature of any other persons signing commercial documents

How to Get an Arkansas Notary Public License