How to become a notary in Pennsylvania
Notaries in Pennsylvania are commissioned by the Pennsylvania Department of State, Bureau of Notaries, Commissions and Legislation. Here is who can apply, what it takes and what it costs, from the state's own rules, checked November 4, 2026.
Who can become a notary in Pennsylvania?
- At least 18 years old
- U.S. citizen or permanent legal resident
- Live in, or work or practice in, Pennsylvania
- Able to read and write English
- No disqualifying criminal convictions or sanctions
- Not a member of Congress, a federal officeholder with pay or benefits, or a member of the General Assembly
What are the Pennsylvania notary requirements?
| Commissioned by | Pennsylvania Department of State, Bureau of Notaries, Commissions and Legislation |
|---|---|
| Training required | Yes. A 3-hour Department-approved notary education course must be completed within 6 months before applying, for both new and renewing notaries. |
| Exam required | Yes. Required for first-time applicants and for anyone whose previous commission has expired; given by Pearson VUE. Instructions are emailed after the Department reviews your application. |
| Surety bond | $25,000 |
| Application fee | $42 |
| Commission term | 4 years |
| Remote online notarization | Yes; Act 97 of 2020 made remote notarization permanent, and notaries must notify the Department of State and use an approved technology provider before performing remote acts. |
Steps to become a notary in Pennsylvania
- Complete a 3-hour approved notary education course and keep the completion proof
- Apply online (or by mail) to the Department of State with the $42 fee and course proof
- Take the Pearson VUE exam if required, using the emailed instructions
- After appointment, buy a $25,000 surety bond from a surety authorized in Pennsylvania and take the oath of office
- Within 45 days, record the bond, oath and commission with the county Recorder of Deeds where you keep your office
- Within the same 45 days, register your signature with the county Prothonotary (or the Recorder of Deeds); missing the deadline voids the commission
Apply on the official Pennsylvania site
How do you find a notary in Pennsylvania?
- 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.
- Check that a notary is commissioned on the official Pennsylvania notary lookup.