Notary Public in Pennsylvania
Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for PA
Est. Total Cost
$200
Education + exams + fees
Time to Complete
2-4 weeks for application processing, 45 days to complete oath/bond/recording
From start to licensed
How to Become a Notary Public in Pennsylvania
To become a Notary Public in Pennsylvania, applicants must complete a three-hour approved education course within six months prior to applying and pass a state exam administered by Pearson VUE. The application is submitted to the Pennsylvania Department of State with a $42 fee. After approval, a $25,000 surety bond must be obtained, and the oath of office, bond, and commission must be recorded with the Recorder of Deeds within 45 days of appointment. Pennsylvania recognizes remote online notarization and notarial acts performed in other states.
Notary Public Requirements in Pennsylvania
| Detail | Pennsylvania |
|---|---|
| Licensing Body | Pennsylvania Department of State |
| State License Required | Yes |
| Education | 3-hour approved education course |
| Exam | Pennsylvania Notary Public Exam ($65) |
| Application Fee | $42 |
| Renewal | Every 4.0 years |
| Continuing Education | 3.0 hours per cycle |
| Notes | Applicants must be at least 18 years old, a U.S. citizen or permanent legal resident, reside or be employed in Pennsylvania, be able to read and write English, and have no disqualifying criminal convictions or prior notary sanctions. A $25,000 surety bond is required. The oath of office, bond, and commission must be recorded with the Recorder of Deeds within 45 days of appointment. Renewing notaries are not required to retake the exam if their commission has not lapsed. Pennsylvania authorizes remote online notarization (RON) for commissioned notaries and recognizes properly performed online notarizations from other states. |
Source: Pennsylvania Department of State
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you get certified as a notary public in Pennsylvania?
To become a notary public in Pennsylvania, you need to complete the required education (3-hour approved education course), pass the Pennsylvania Notary Public Exam, and submit your application ($42 fee).
Do I need a license to work as a notary public in Pennsylvania?
You cannot practice as a notary public in Pennsylvania without a state license from Pennsylvania Department of State. The required exam is the Pennsylvania Notary Public Exam.
What are the fees to become a notary public in Pennsylvania?
Between exam fee ($65) and application fee ($42), expect to invest around $200 in total to get started.
How many months or years does notary public certification take in Pennsylvania?
Expect to spend 2-4 weeks for application processing, 45 days to complete oath/bond/recording from start to finish in Pennsylvania — covering coursework, supervised experience, and examination.
Does Pennsylvania require continuing education for notary publics?
Yes — notary publics in Pennsylvania must complete 3.0 CE hours every 4.0 years to stay licensed.
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