How to Become a Notary in New York
Learn about New York notary requirements, commission process, fees, and more. Prepare with AI-powered supplementary training, adaptive quizzes, and a 24/7 AI tutor scoped to New York law.
New York requires notary applicants to pass a state-administered examination. While no mandatory pre-commission education course is required, applicants must demonstrate knowledge of New York notary law. Notary Mentor is a supplementary study resource only and does not replace the official state examination.
New York Notary Requirements at a Glance
Key facts about notary commissions in New York.
Remote Online Notarization
Journal Requirements
New York does not currently mandate by statute that notaries keep a journal of notarial acts for traditional in-person notarizations; however, maintaining a journal is strongly recommended as a best p...
Fees & Seals
Under New York Executive Law § 136, the maximum fee for administering an oath or taking an acknowledgment is $2.00 per person. The notary's stamp or seal must include the notary's name, the words 'Not...
Key Topics Covered for New York
Master these essential areas of New York notary law with our AI-powered training platform.
Acknowledgments
Under New York Executive Law § 135 and Real Property Law §§ 298–309, a notary taking an acknowledgment must confirm that the person appearing before the notary is the individual de...
Journals & Records
New York does not currently mandate by statute that notaries keep a journal of notarial acts for traditional in-person notarizations; however, maintaining a journal is strongly rec...
Identity Verification
Under New York Executive Law and the Department of State's guidance, a notary must verify the identity of a signer through personal knowledge or proof of identity. Acceptable proof...
RON Specifics
New York enacted remote online notarization legislation effective February 2023 under Executive Law § 135-c. RON-authorized notaries must register with the Department of State and ...
Prohibited Acts
Under New York Executive Law § 135-a and related provisions, notaries are prohibited from: acting in transactions where they have a personal interest; notarizing their own signatur...
Fees & Seals
Under New York Executive Law § 136, the maximum fee for administering an oath or taking an acknowledgment is $2.00 per person. The notary's stamp or seal must include the notary's ...
Common Pitfalls to Avoid in New York
Mistakes that New York notaries frequently make — and how to avoid them.
Using the title 'Notario Publico' in advertising, which is prohibited under New York Executive Law § 135-a(2) and may mislead immigrant communities.
Charging more than the statutory maximum of $2.00 per acknowledgment or oath.
Failing to require personal appearance of the signer before performing an acknowledgment or jurat.
Notarizing a document in which the notary has a direct personal or financial interest.
Not including the required information on the notary stamp, such as the registration number and commission expiration date.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about becoming a notary in New York.
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