A Pennsylvania notary is a public official appointed and commissioned by the Department of State (DOS). They have the authority to administer and verify oaths, take acknowledgements, witness signatures, and certify copies of records or depositions. 

Read on to learn how to get a notary commission in Pennsylvania with this step-by-step guide.

How to Get a Pennsylvania Notary Public Commission 

To become a licensed notary in Pennsylvania, you must meet these requirements first: 

• Be at least 18 years of age
• Have a clear criminal background
• Have never had your notary commission revoked 
• Be a United States citizen or permanent resident 
• Be proficient in English 
• Reside or work in Pennsylvania 

If you meet those prerequisites, the steps below will guide you through the notary application process. 

Step 1: Complete the notary training course

All Pennsylvania notary licensees must complete a three hour notary training course. Select a course from the list of DOS-approved education providers.

Step 2: Submit a notary public application

Next, complete your notary application online or mail a paper application to the DOS. Include payment for the $42 filing fee and proof of completion from your notary training course. 

The DOS typically takes 1–3 weeks to approve notary license applications. You have 45 days from your appointment date to complete the next three steps. 

Step 3: Purchase a $10,000 notary bond

The Pennsylvania DOS requires notaries to purchase a $10,000 surety bond. You can add $10,000–$30,000 of optional errors and omissions coverage for an additional premium. Visit our Pennsylvania notary public bond page to get your bond in minutes with instant email delivery! Prices start at just $50. 

Step 4: Complete the Pennsylvania notary exam

The DOS will also provide your exam details. You have six months from your authorization date to pass. The exam costs $65 per attempt. The testing company reports your score to DOS automatically. 

Step 5: Complete all notarization and oath requirements 

Once you receive notice of appointment from the DOS, bring your oath of office, commission and signed bond form to your county's Recorder of Deeds office. When you file the documents, you also need to register your signature with the Recorder of Deeds.

You can take your oath in front of any licensed notary or other authorized public official. For more details and locations to complete this step, visit the Pennsylvania DOS page. 

Step 6: Buy notary supplies 

Pennsylvania notaries must purchase a rubber stamp and journal. A proper notary stamp seal does not exceed 1” x 3.5” in size and includes the following details:

• A plain border around the contents
• The words “Commonwealth of Pennsylvania” and  “Notary Seal”
• Your name as it appears on the commission followed by “Notary Public”
• The name of the county in which you maintain an office
• Your commission expiration date
• Your commission number

For examples and more details, visit the Pennsylvania DOS notary equipment page. 

How to Renew Your Pennsylvania Notary Public Commission 

Pennsylvania notary public terms last four years. You should file for reappointment at least two to three months before your license expires. The notary license renewal process is very simple:

• Complete a training course within six months of reapplication
• Purchase a new surety bond
• Submit your renewal application and pay the $42 filing fee
• Retake your oath of office and file documents with the Recorder of Deeds office
• Make any necessary updates to your seal

Note: If you allow your term to expire before filling out a renewal, you’ll need to reapply as a new applicant. 

How Much Does It Cost to Get a Notary License in Pennsylvania  

The following costs are associated with a Pennsylvania notary application: 

• Notary Exam Fee: $65
• Surety Bond: $50–$130, depending on the E&O you choose
• DOS Filing Fee: $42
• Notary Supplies: $20–$70, depending on the vendor you choose

Depending on the providers and insurance coverage you choose, you can expect to pay at least $177 to become a licensed notary in Pennsylvania. 

How to Become a Electronic Notary in Pennsylvania

The Pennsylvania DOS allows currently commissioned notaries to add an e-notary certification. This allows you to perform electronic and remote online notarizations.

You can get your certification in just four simple steps: 

• FIll out an e-notary application 
• Select an approved technology provider 
• Purchase the proper technology
• Have your technology provider notify the DOS

Your e-notary certification will expire with your traditional notary term. To renew, follow the steps above again. For more details, visit the DOS electronic/remote notary page.

More Resources 

• Pennsylvania DOS notary application checklist 
• Pennsylvania DOS notary bond requirements
• Required notary training information