How to Get a Kansas Notary Public Commission 

In Kansas, notaries public are appointed by the Secretary of State’s office and serve as impartial witnesses to verify the authenticity of signatures on important documents. You must complete specific steps to become a commissioned notary public according to state law.

Learn how to get your Kansas notary license with this complete guide.

Who Is Eligible to Become a Kansas Notary?

To qualify for a notary public commission in Kansas, you must meet the following criteria:

• Be at least 18 years of age
• Be a legal Kansas resident or a resident of a bordering state who regularly conducts business or is employed in Kansas
• Be proficient in English
• Have no felony convictions or crimes involving fraud, dishonesty or deceit, including entering into a diversion agreement for such crimes
• Have no history of a professional license being denied, revoked or suspended for reasons related to fraud, dishonesty or deceit
• Have no notary public commission in another state that was denied, refused renewal, revoked, suspended or conditioned

How Do I Become a Notary Public in Kansas?

To become a notary public in Kansas, follow these five steps. 

Step 1: Purchase a $12,000 notary bond

To become a Kansas notary, you must file a four-year, $12,000 surety bond to ensure that you will fulfill your notarial duties correctly. If you break license regulations, the bond protects your clients from financial harm.

You can buy your Kansas notary bond with E&O coverage instantly online for just $50 with SuretyBonds.com. 

Step 2: Order a Kansas notary stamp

Next, purchase a notary stamp that matches the name on your application. Affix an impression of the stamp to your notary application before submission. 

Step 3: Take your oath of office

Sign the oath of office printed on section B of your notary application, which must be witnessed by another notary public.

Step 4: Submit the application

To submit your application, you will need to:

• Create an account on the Kansas Secretary of State (SoS) website.
• Upload your notary application along with your oath of office and bond.
• Pay the $25 filing fee online.

Step 5: Receive your commission

After the SoS processes your application, you will receive your Kansas notary certificate, wallet card and handbook. You can start notarizing documents once your appointment becomes officially active and your commission expiration date is assigned.

Do I Need to Purchase Any Supplies as a Notary Public in Kansas?

A notary journal and seal are required for all official notarizations in Kansas. Your seal can be a pre-inked or self-inking stamp and must show:

• Your name as it appears on the application
• The words "Notary Public" and "State of Kansas"
• A clear, legible design that does not smudge

How to Renew Your Kansas Notary Public License

A Kansas notary public commission is valid for four years. To renew your commission, you must submit a renewal application and pay the $25 application fee.

Kansas notary bonds must also be renewed at the end of their four-year term. After paying your renewal invoice, a new surety bond form will be issued and sent to you.

How Long Does it Take to Get a Kansas Notary License?

The processing time for notary public applications is typically two to four weeks. After approval, you will receive your commission certificate in the mail, which usually takes another seven to ten business days.

How Much Does It Cost to Get a Notary Public Commission?

The total cost to become a Kansas notary public generally ranges between $115 and $165. This includes the following expenses:

• Application fee: $25
• Surety bond: $70–$90*
• Notary supplies: $20–$50

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

How to Become a Remote Notary in Kansas

Once you are licensed, you have the option to become an e-notary and remote notary public in Kansas. Complete the following steps to receive electronic abilities:

1. Choose RON Provider: Choose an approved RON/IPEN technology provider that offers a platform for audio-video communication, identity verification, electronic document signing and electronic journaling. Ensure the provider is registered with the Kansas SoS.
2. Complete Training: Complete the free training and test provided by the state. After passing, download the certificate to submit with your RON registration.
3. Notify the Secretary of State: Inform the SoS about your chosen RON provider, pay the $20 registration fee, and upload your training certificate. Your RON registration is valid for the duration of your standard notary commission.

Once you complete these steps, you will be authorized to perform remote notarizations in Kansas.

More Resources 

• Kansas Secretary of State: Notary Public Appointment Form and Instructions
• Kansas Secretary of State: Steps to Become a Kansas Notary
• Kansas Notary Public Handbook