How to become a notary in Ohio
Notaries in Ohio are commissioned by the Ohio Secretary of State. Here is who can apply, what it takes and what it costs, from the state's own rules, checked November 4, 2026.
The state's website could not be fully reached when we checked, so some details come from Ohio law and official forms. Confirm them on the official page before you apply.
Who can become a notary in Ohio?
- At least 18 years old
- Legal resident of Ohio (or an Ohio-admitted attorney whose main practice or place of business is in Ohio)
- Criminal records check completed within the past 6 months showing no disqualifying offense (attorneys and peace officers exempt)
- Complete an approved education program and pass a test (attorneys take the education but not the test)
What are the Ohio notary requirements?
| Commissioned by | Ohio Secretary of State |
|---|---|
| Training required | Yes. Non-attorneys must complete a 3-hour education program from a Secretary of State-authorized provider; the provider fee is $130 (attorneys: 3 hours, $75). Renewals need a 1-hour course ($45) within 12 months before expiration. |
| Exam required | Yes. Non-attorneys must pass a test given by the authorized provider. After a failed test you may retake it after 30 days, but no later than 6 months after the criminal records check was issued; a second failure means starting over. |
| Surety bond | None stated by the state |
| Application fee | $15 |
| Commission term | 5 years |
| Remote online notarization | Yes; a commissioned notary who lives in Ohio may apply to the Secretary of State for separate online notary authorization after completing an approved course and exam (ORC 147.63), and must be physically in Ohio when notarizing online. |
Steps to become a notary in Ohio
- Get a criminal records check (BCI) report; it must be less than 6 months old when you apply
- Complete the 3-hour education program and pass the test with a Secretary of State-authorized provider
- Apply to the Ohio Secretary of State online and pay the $15 filing fee, including your records check and course/test proof
- Receive your commission from the Secretary of State
- Buy a notary seal meeting Ohio requirements before notarizing
- Report any name or address change to the Secretary of State within 30 days
Apply on the official Ohio site
How do you find a notary in Ohio?
- Banks, credit unions, shipping stores and law offices often have a notary on staff. Call ahead, because not every branch does.
- A mobile notary travels to you for a travel fee on top of the state's notarization fee.
- Bring a current government photo ID and the unsigned document. Don't sign it until the notary watches you.
- A notary checks your identity and witnesses your signature. They can't give legal advice or tell you what a document means unless they are also a lawyer.