How do I Become a Mobile Notary Public?

An individual who wants to become a mobile notary public generally follows the requirements for commissioning in his jurisdiction. This often involves contacting the office responsible for commissioning notaries public and requesting a handbook or information packet that explains a notary public’s duties. Then, the aspiring notary public usually uses the handbook or information packet to study for the test required for becoming a notary public in his jurisdiction. A person who wants to become a mobile notary public usually passes this test, fills out a notary public appointment application, and pays a fee to secure his commission.

A notary public is a person authorized by his jurisdiction to witness the signing of official documents. For example, a notary public may witness affidavits and loan documents; he may also administer oaths. The notarization of documents is supposed to act as a deterrent against fraud and help to ensure that a person who enters into a signed agreement does so willingly. A person who wants to become a mobile notary public will provide the same service. The difference is he will travel to witness documents, visiting the homes and businesses of people who need documents notarized, rather than having customers travel to him.

Most jurisdictions have a straightforward process for commissioning a new notary public. Usually, a person who wants to become a notary public has to complete an application and pay a fee, which may vary from place to place. He may also have to submit to a background check and fingerprinting. Then, he usually takes the standardized test required in his jurisdiction.

To prepare for the standardized test, a person usually studies the handbook or information packet his jurisdiction provides. In some cases, however, a jurisdiction may offer notary public courses an individual can take as preparation. After passing the test, the test taker receives a commission certificate as well as information about ordering the notary supplies he’ll need to perform his job. For example, he’ll need to order a custom notary seal.

After receiving his commission, a person who wants to become a mobile notary public may set his rates. In most cases, his jurisdiction sets a maximum amount he can charge for notarizing each document, but he’ll need to set fees for his time and travel expenses as well. These fees should include gas costs and mileage. The new notary will also need to decide how far he is willing to travel to provide this service.

Once a mobile notary is ready to offer his services, he can advertise to businesses in the area. Fliers, direct mail packages, and ads in local phone directories may help him to get the word out. Newspaper and online advertising may help as well.