How to Become a Notary Public in New York - 2026 Guide
This guide covers every step to get your NY notary commission: eligibility requirements, the exam, the online application, and fees. Exam results take ~10 days by mail. Once you apply online at NY Business Express, processing takes just 3-5 business days.
Who Can Become a Notary in New York?
New York notary requirements are straightforward. You must meet all of the following:
- At least 18 years old
- US citizen or permanent resident alien (green card holder)
- NY State resident OR have a regular place of business in New York
- No disqualifying felony conviction (pardons may restore eligibility)
- No conviction for certain misdemeanors involving dishonesty
- Sufficient English proficiency
- Equivalent of a common school education (roughly 8th grade - no degree required)
Exam exemptions: NY-licensed attorneys and court clerks (after passing the civil service exam) are exempt from the notary exam. They may apply directly for a commission without sitting for the written test.
The NY Notary Exam - What You Need to Know
The exam covers three topic areas:
- License Law (60%): Requirements, fees, jurisdiction, misconduct, and removal.
- General Terms (25%): Acknowledgment, affidavit, jurat, deed, mortgage, power of attorney, and other legal vocabulary.
- Duties and Functions (15%): What notaries can and cannot do, fees they may charge, unlawful practice of law.
The Complete Step-by-Step Process
- 1
Study the official NYS Notary Public License Law booklet
Everything on the exam comes from this booklet. Use our free study guide as your primary resource, then verify against the official booklet.
- 2
Take practice exams until you score above 80%
Our free practice exam has 120+ questions across all three topics. Take at least three full exams before the real thing.
- 3
Find your nearest exam location and walk in on an exam day
No appointment needed. Bring a valid government-issued photo ID and the $15 fee (check, money order, or card).
- 4
Complete the 40-question exam within 1 hour
Most people finish in 15-25 minutes. Focus on exact fees, exact terms, and exact timelines - not just general concepts.
- 5
Wait for your pass slip by mail
Results arrive by mail in approximately 10 days. You will be notified whether you passed or failed (no score is given).
- 6
Create an account at businessexpress.ny.gov
This is the NY Department of State online portal where you submit your application.
- 7
Submit your application and pay the $60 fee
You will need your pass slip information. The application is completed entirely online.
- 8
Complete the Oath of Office (Form DOS-2201)
Download form DOS-2201 from dos.ny.gov. Sign the oath before a commissioned notary, scan it, and upload it through the NY Business Express portal. You can also select traditional or electronic commission type at this step.
- 9
Application processes in 3-5 business days
Once submitted online via NY Business Express, your application is typically processed within 3-5 business days. Payment is by credit card (MasterCard or Visa). The $60 fee is non-refundable.
- 10
Receive your 4-year Notary Public Identification Card
Your commission card arrives by mail. You are now a commissioned NY notary public, authorized to perform notarizations throughout New York State.
- 11
Order your notary stamp (recommended)
A notary stamp or seal costs $20-$50 and is required by most institutions. Your stamp should include your name, county of commissioning, and commission expiration date.
How Much Does It Cost to Become a Notary in New York?
| Item | Cost | Required? |
|---|---|---|
| Notary exam fee | $15 | Yes |
| Application fee | $60 | Yes |
| Notary stamp or seal | $20-$50 | Recommended |
| Name or address change | $10 | If applicable |
| Duplicate ID card | $10 | If needed |
| Total minimum | $75 |
Common Questions About Becoming a Notary in NY
Ready to Start Studying?
Our free practice exam and study guide cover everything you need to pass the first time.