Becoming a Notary Public in Arizona offers opportunities to serve your community. This guide details requirements, application, training, and responsibilities for success.
Initial Requirements and Eligibility
Before you start, ensure you meet the Arizona Secretary of State’s requirements. Failing to meet these prerequisites will disqualify your application.
- Age: You must be at least 18 years of age.
- Residency or Place of Business: You must be a legal resident of Arizona or maintain a regular place of business within the state. This ensures you are accessible for providing notarial services.
- Ability to Read and Write English: You must be able to read and write English, as this is the language of official documents in Arizona.
- Criminal Record: You cannot have had your Arizona Notary Public commission revoked. If you have a criminal record, the Secretary of State will review it to determine if it disqualifies you. Generally, felonies or offenses involving dishonesty, fraud, or moral turpitude will likely be disqualifying.
- Not Disqualified: You must not be disqualified under A.R.S. § 41-312(G). This statute outlines specific reasons for disqualification, including having a commission revoked for cause.
Step-by-Step Application Process
Once you’ve confirmed your eligibility, complete the application process through the Arizona Secretary of State’s website. The application is generally available online and must be filled out accurately and completely.
Complete the Application: Visit the Arizona Secretary of State’s website (azsos.gov) and navigate to the Notary Public section. Download the application form and fill it out carefully. This form will ask for personal information, contact details, your business address (if applicable), and answers to questions regarding your eligibility.
Background Check: As part of the application, you will need to undergo a background check. The Secretary of State will initiate this process, which may involve fingerprinting and submission to the Arizona Department of Public Safety. You will likely be responsible for paying the fees associated with the background check.
Notary Education (Required Training): Arizona requires you to complete a 3-hour notary education course. The course must be taught by an instructor approved by the Secretary of State. This training covers Arizona notary law, proper notarial procedures, and ethical responsibilities. Successfully completing this course is a mandatory prerequisite for receiving your commission. You will receive a certificate upon completion, which you’ll need to submit with your application.
Surety Bond: You are required to obtain a surety bond in the amount of $5,000. This bond protects the public from financial losses resulting from any negligent or fraudulent acts you may commit as a Notary Public. You can purchase this bond from a licensed bonding company.
Oath of Office: Once your application is approved, you will receive instructions to take the Oath of Office. This oath is a formal declaration of your commitment to uphold the laws and ethical standards of the office of Notary Public. You will likely take the oath before a County Recorder or another authorized official.
File Paperwork: After taking the oath, all completed paperwork (application, education certificate, surety bond, oath of office documentation) must be filed with the Secretary of State. Follow the specific instructions provided by the Secretary of State’s office regarding how to submit these documents.
Receive Commission Certificate: Once all requirements are met and the paperwork is reviewed and approved, the Secretary of State will issue your Notary Public commission certificate. This certificate grants you the legal authority to perform notarial acts in Arizona.
Understanding the Costs Involved
Becoming a Notary Public involves several expenses. Here’s a breakdown of the typical costs:
| Expense | Estimated Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Application Fee | $43 | Payable to the Arizona Secretary of State. Subject to change, verify on the SOS website. |
| Background Check | $22 - $80 | Varies depending on the vendor used for fingerprinting and the type of background check required. |
| Notary Education Course | $75 - $150 | Price depends on the course provider. Ensure the course is approved by the Arizona Secretary of State. |
| Surety Bond | $50 - $100 | The premium for a $5,000 surety bond. This is typically a percentage of the total bond amount. |
| Notary Seal/Stamp | $25 - $50 | Essential for performing notarial acts. |
| Journal (Record Book) | $15 - $30 | Recommended for maintaining a record of all notarial acts performed. |
| Total Estimated Cost | $230 - $453 | This is an estimate and may vary. Always check with the relevant agencies for current pricing and fees. |
Key Responsibilities and Duties of an Arizona Notary Public
As an Arizona Notary Public, you are entrusted with important responsibilities. It’s vital to understand your duties and obligations to maintain the integrity of the notarization process.
- Verify Identity: One of the most crucial responsibilities is to positively identify the person signing the document (the “signer”). You must use satisfactory evidence of identification, such as a valid government-issued photo ID.
- Witness Signatures: You must personally witness the signer affixing their signature to the document. This ensures the signature is authentic and that the signer is acting of their own free will.
- Administer Oaths and Affirmations: You are authorized to administer oaths and affirmations, which are sworn statements of truthfulness.
- Complete Notarial Certificates: You must complete a notarial certificate (also known as a notarial act) that complies with Arizona law. This certificate includes details such as the date, location, type of notarial act, and your official seal and signature.
- Maintain a Journal (Recommended): While not strictly required by Arizona law, it is highly recommended to keep a detailed journal of all notarial acts performed. This journal serves as a record of your activities and can be invaluable in the event of a legal challenge.
- Safeguard Your Seal and Journal: Your official seal and journal are essential tools of your office. Protect them from loss or theft.
- Adhere to Arizona Notary Law: You are expected to be knowledgeable of and comply with all relevant Arizona statutes and regulations pertaining to notarial acts.
Pro Tips for Success
- Stay Updated: Notary laws and regulations can change. Stay informed about any updates or revisions to Arizona notary law by regularly checking the Secretary of State’s website.
- Invest in Quality Supplies: Purchase high-quality notary seals, stamps, and journals to ensure clear and accurate documentation.
- Seek Continuing Education: Even though Arizona only requires initial training, consider taking continuing education courses to expand your knowledge and skills.
- Understand Your Limitations: Be aware of the types of documents you are authorized to notarize. Do not perform notarial acts on documents that are beyond your scope of authority.
- Maintain Impartiality: Always remain impartial and unbiased when performing notarial acts. You should not notarize documents in which you have a personal or financial interest.
- Refuse Improper Requests: If you suspect fraud or that the signer is being coerced, refuse to perform the notarization. Your duty is to protect the integrity of the process.
- Liability Insurance: Consider purchasing Errors and Omissions (E&O) insurance to protect yourself from financial losses in case of unintentional errors or omissions. While a surety bond protects the public, E&O insurance protects you.
By following these guidelines and diligently fulfilling your responsibilities, you can become a successful and respected Notary Public in Arizona, providing valuable services to your community while upholding the highest standards of integrity and professionalism. Remember to always refer to the Arizona Secretary of State’s website for the most up-to-date information and requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to become a notary public in Arizona?
The total cost ranges from $230 to $453, including the application fee, background check, education course, surety bond, and notary seal/stamp. Costs may vary, so check with relevant agencies for current pricing.
How long does it take to become a notary in Arizona?
The timeline varies, but it generally takes a few weeks to a couple of months. This includes completing the application, undergoing a background check, finishing the required education, obtaining a surety bond, and receiving your commission certificate.
Is it difficult to become a notary public in Arizona?
Becoming a notary in Arizona is relatively straightforward. As long as you meet the eligibility requirements, complete the necessary steps, and adhere to the guidelines, the process is manageable.
How long is the Arizona notary public commission valid?
An Arizona Notary Public commission is valid for four years. You must renew your commission before it expires to continue performing notarial acts.