How to Become a Notary in Arizona

 Today we'll explore just what you need to do to become a notary in the state of Arizona. It's really quite simple, you'll see! Follow these steps and you'll be up and running your business in no time!

First, you need to meet these basic state requirements: you must be at least 18 years of age and you must be an Arizona state resident. You must not have any past felony convictions. Also, if you've had any professional licenses revoked or suspended for misconduct or dishonesty the state may refuse your commission. So make sure you consider that before you submit your application.

Now on to the fun stuff! You'll want to familiarize yourself with the laws and regulations behind becoming a notary in Arizona. Everything you need to know can be found in the Arizona Notary Reference Manual available on the Arizona Secretary of State official website.

 

After you have read the manual and are confident that you know everything you need to know to become a notary, you can fill out an application. This is also available on the Arizona Secretary of State Website. On the application, you attest to the fact that you meet the requirements listed above. Fill out the application carefully and honestly. A few tips as listed on the application:

Print your name exactly as you want your notary commission to be issued.

If you want to include your middle name or initial only if you intend to use it when signing as a notary public.

Your notary commission is based on your physical home address, so list this on your application.

Fill in all of the fields. This means that if the field is not-applicable, write "n/a" in the blank.

Sign the application exactly as your name is printed.

Next you'll need to obtain a $5000.00 surety bond from any insurance agent. Make sure to request a duplicate: one copy for the state and one for your records. A surety bond protects the public from any errors that you may commit during your term as notary.

 

You'll need to include a check or money order in the amount of $43.00 made payable to the Secretary of State. The breakdown is as follows: there is a $25.00 Application fee and a $18.00 notary bond filing fee.

Once you have completed the application, send it, along with the filing fee and the copy of the surety bond, and mail them to:

Arizona Secretary of State Ken Bennett

Business Services, Notary Section

1700 W. Washington Street, 7th Fl.,

Phoenix, AZ 85007-2888

Now the wait. From the time you submit your application until you receive your commission in the mail could take as much as four to six weeks. Patience is a virtue because once you receive your commission in the mail, you are officially a notary! Congratulations!

Make sure you come back and let us know how the process went and tell us your success stories! We always love hearing from you!

Arizona Notary. Since 1994 hundreds of thousands in Arizona and around the nation used AAN to become notaries. From $25.00 for a 4-year Arizona notary term.