How To Become A Notary In Nj

Becoming a Notary Public in New Jersey allows you to serve your community by verifying the authenticity of signatures and documents, deterring fraud, and ensuring proper execution. This guide provides a detailed, step-by-step process for achieving notary status in the Garden State.

Here’s the concise answer: To become a Notary Public in New Jersey, you must meet the basic eligibility requirements, complete an online application, pass a background check, take an oath of office, and obtain a notary seal and journal. Finally, obtain an E&O Insurance policy to protect yourself from potential liability. This guide will break down each of these steps in detail.

Eligibility Requirements for New Jersey Notaries

Before embarking on the application process, ensure you meet the following eligibility criteria:

• Age: You must be at least 18 years old.
• Residency or Place of Employment: You must reside in New Jersey, or if you reside in another state, you must maintain a place of employment or practice in New Jersey.
• Criminal Record: You must not have been convicted of any crime involving moral turpitude (conduct that is considered base, vile, or depraved). Prior felony convictions could disqualify you. The New Jersey Department of the Treasury ultimately determines eligibility based on background checks.
• Literacy: You must be able to read and write English.

Step-by-Step Guide to Becoming a Notary Public in New Jersey

Here is a detailed walkthrough of each step to becoming a licensed Notary Public in New Jersey:

1. Complete the Online Application:

• Navigate to the New Jersey Department of the Treasury, Division of Revenue and Enterprise Services (DORES) website.
• Create an account or log in if you already have one.
• Locate the online Notary Public application and complete all required fields accurately. This includes providing personal information, contact details, and answers to questions regarding your eligibility.
• Pro Tip: Double-check all information before submitting. Errors can cause delays in processing your application.

2. Pass a Background Check:

• As part of the application process, you will be subject to a criminal background check.
• The Department of the Treasury will initiate the background check upon receiving your application.
• You might be required to submit fingerprints, depending on the information revealed during the initial background check.
• Important: Be transparent about any past legal issues. Hiding information can lead to automatic disqualification.

3. Take the Oath of Office:

• Upon approval of your application and successful completion of the background check, you will receive a notification with instructions on taking the Oath of Office.
• The Oath of Office must be administered by an authorized official, typically a county clerk or a designated notary public.
• Schedule an appointment with an authorized official to take the oath.
• During the oath, you will swear to uphold the laws of New Jersey and faithfully perform your duties as a notary public.

4. Obtain a Notary Seal and Journal:

• Once you have taken the Oath of Office, you must obtain a notary seal and a journal of notarial acts.

• Notary Seal: The seal must contain your name, the words “Notary Public, State of New Jersey,” and your commission expiration date. The seal can be either an inked rubber stamp or an embosser. Many notaries opt for a stamp for ease of use and clarity in document reproduction.

• Notary Journal: A notary journal is a crucial record of all notarial acts performed. It must be a permanently bound book with consecutively numbered pages. You must record specific details for each notarization, including:

  • Date of notarization
  • Type of notarial act (acknowledgment, jurat, etc.)
  • Name and address of the person whose signature was notarized
  • Type of identification presented
  • Fee charged (if any)
  • Signature of the person whose signature was notarized

• Pro Tip: It’s highly recommended to obtain your seal and journal from a reputable notary supply vendor. They will ensure your seal meets all legal requirements.

5. Obtain Errors and Omissions (E&O) Insurance (Highly Recommended):

• While not required by law in New Jersey, obtaining E&O insurance is highly recommended to protect yourself from potential financial liability arising from unintentional errors or omissions in your notarial acts.
• E&O insurance covers legal fees and damages in the event of a claim against you.
• Pro Tip: Shop around for E&O insurance policies to compare coverage options and premiums. Consider factors such as coverage limits, deductibles, and policy exclusions.

6. Understand Your Notary Responsibilities:

• Familiarize yourself with the New Jersey Notary Public Manual and all applicable laws and regulations governing notarial acts.
• Understand the different types of notarial acts, such as acknowledgments, jurats, oaths, and affirmations.
• Know how to properly identify signers and verify their signatures.
• Keep your notary seal and journal secure to prevent unauthorized use.
• Important: Never notarize your own signature or the signature of a close relative (spouse, parent, child, sibling).

Costs Associated with Becoming a Notary in New Jersey

Here’s a breakdown of the typical costs involved:

Total Estimated Cost: $150 - $305 + Background Check

Please note that these are estimated costs and may vary depending on the vendor you choose and any additional services you require.

Renewing Your Notary Commission

Your Notary Public commission in New Jersey is valid for five years. To renew your commission, you must complete the renewal application process online and undergo another background check. It is crucial to begin the renewal process well in advance of your commission’s expiration date to avoid any lapse in your authority.

Pro Tips for New Jersey Notaries:

• Stay Updated: The laws and regulations governing notaries public are subject to change. Regularly review the New Jersey Notary Public Manual and any updates issued by the Department of the Treasury.
• Seek Continuing Education: Consider attending notary education courses or workshops to enhance your knowledge and skills.
• Maintain Accurate Records: Keep your notary journal up-to-date and secure. Accurate record-keeping is essential for protecting yourself from liability.
• Never Cut Corners: Always follow proper procedures when performing notarial acts. Never notarize a document if you are unsure of the signer’s identity or willingness.
• Understand Impartiality: As a Notary Public, you are an impartial witness. Never offer legal advice or influence the signer’s decision.

Becoming a Notary Public in New Jersey is a rewarding way to serve your community. By following these steps and adhering to the highest ethical standards, you can ensure that you are performing your duties responsibly and effectively. Remember that attention to detail, adherence to regulations, and a commitment to ethical conduct are the keys to a successful and long-lasting career as a notary public.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to become a notary in NJ?

The total estimated cost to become a notary in NJ ranges from $150 to $305, plus the background check fee. This includes the application fee, notary seal, journal, and optional E&O insurance.

How long does it take to become a notary public in New Jersey?

The time it takes to become a notary in NJ varies, but it generally takes a few weeks to a few months. This depends on the processing time for the application and background check.

Is it difficult to become a notary in NJ?

Becoming a notary in NJ is not overly difficult, but it requires careful attention to detail. Meeting the eligibility requirements, completing the application accurately, and passing the background check are crucial steps.

Is E&O insurance required for NJ notaries?

No, Errors and Omissions (E&O) insurance is not legally required for New Jersey notaries. However, it is highly recommended to protect yourself from financial liability due to unintentional errors in notarial acts.