How to Get a New Mexico Notary Public Commission 

Notaries public are appointed by the New Mexico 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 notary in New Mexico as set forth by state law.

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

How Do I Become a Notary Public in New Mexico?

To become a notary public in New Mexico, follow these seven steps. 

Step 1: Verify your eligibility

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

• Be at least 18 years old.
• Be a resident of New Mexico or have a place of employment in the state.
• Be able to read and write in English.
• Not have had a notary commission revoked, suspended, or denied in any other state.
• Not have been convicted of a felony or any crime involving fraud, dishonesty, or deceit in the past five years.
• Not be disqualified from receiving a commission under Section 22 of the Revised Uniform Law on Notarial Acts.

Step 2: Complete a notary course and pass exam

You are required to complete a state-approved notary education course and successfully pass the 50 question exam.

Step 3: Purchase your $10,000 notary bond

New Mexico requires notaries to file a $10,00 surety bond. This notary bond ensures 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 New Mexico notary bond instantly online for just $50. Or, you can bundle errors and omissions insurance with your bond for $90–$130. This is optional, but recommended, to protect yourself from legal damages due to common notarization errors. 

Step 4: Submit Your Application

Complete your application online through the Secretary of State’s website. You will need to upload the following documents in PDF format:

• Certificate of completion from the notary education course
• A signed and notarized oath of office
• A notarized $10,000 surety bond

A $30 filing fee is also required, which can be paid by e-check or credit card.

Step 5: Receive Your Commission

Once your application is processed, you will receive your official notary commission certificate.

Step 6: Register Your Notary Stamp

After receiving your commission, register your notary stamp with the Secretary of State’s office.

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

A notary seal, usually a pre-inked or self-inking stamp, is required for all official notarizations in New Mexico. Your seal must show:

• Your commissioned name
• Your county of commission
• "Notary Public" and "New Mexico"

While not legally required, using a notary journal is also recommended.

How to Renew Your New Mexico Notary Public License

A notary public commission in New Mexico is valid for four years. To renew your commission, you will need to repeat the renewal process:

• Complete online renewal
• Register stamp within 45 days of renewal 
• Renew notary bond

If your commission has expired for more than a year, you must retake the education course and notary exam. 

New Mexico surety bonds also need to be renewed every four years. A SuretyBonds.com representative will contact you with renewal instructions starting 90 days before expiration. 

How Long Does it Take to Get a New Mexico Notary License?

The processing time for New Mexico 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 License?

The total cost to become a New Mexico notary public generally ranges between $150 and $200. This includes:

• Application fee: $30
• Surety bond: $90–$130*
• Notary supplies: $30–$100

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

How to Become a Remote Online Notary (RON) in New Mexico

Once you are a commissioned notary public in New Mexico, you can also become a remote online notary. Complete the following steps to receive electronic abilities:

1. Complete Training: Take the Remote Online Notary Education course and pass the required exam.
2. Submit Your Application: Apply online through the New Mexico Secretary of State’s website. Include the $75 filing fee along with your course certificate.
3. Register Your Stamp: Purchase your stamp within 45 days of approval and submit a Notary Public Stamp Registration. If this is not done in time, your application will be referred to the State Ethics Commission.

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

More Resources 

• New Mexico Secretary of State Notary: Qualification and Application Information
• New Mexico Secretary of State: Renew a Notary Commission