How to Become a Notary in Arkansas
What Are the Requirements to Become a Notary in Arkansas?
Eligibility
To become a notary in Arkansas, you must:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Be able to read and write English
- Have not been convicted of a felony
- Have not had a notary commission revoked during the past 10 years
- Be a citizen of the United States or a permanent resident alien
- If a permanent resident alien, you must file a recorded Declaration of Domicile with your application
- Be a legal resident of the State of Arkansas, or a legal resident of an adjoining state, who is employed in Arkansas, or nonresident spouse of a United States military member employed or operating a business in Arkansas
- Have reviewed the Arkansas notary law and understands the duties of a notary public
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How to Apply to Become a Notary in Arkansas
If you meet the qualifications, follow these simple steps below to apply for your notary commission in Arkansas:
Step 1: Order Your Arkansas Notary Bond & Supplies
As part of the application process, you must obtain a $7,500 notary bond from a bonding agency, such as Notary Public Underwriters. This bond protects the public from financial loss due to notarial misconduct.
When you visit our Become a Notary page, you will notice that all of our notary packages include the notary bond, a notary stamp, and a record book. While using a record book is optional in Arkansas, most notaries rely on it as an essential tool. A record book provides a written log of your official acts, which can be invaluable if a notarization is ever questioned or if you face a claim for performing a notarial act improperly.
Next, you will enter your information in our online application process to confirm your eligibility for an Arkansas notary commission and allow us to fulfill your order. After completing this information, you will customize your notary package by selecting the case color of your notary stamp and adding any additional supplies you need.
Don’t forget about Notary E&O Insurance!
Although it’s not required by law, investing in notary E&O insurance is a smart decision. Unlike the notary bond, which protects the public and you would have to repay if a claim is made against it, E&O insurance protects you from financial liability for unintentional errors. This policy covers fees or expenses related to defending yourself, with no deductible and no repayment required.
After completing your order, your notary bond will be available for download. You will need this later in the process.
Step 2: Review and Sign Your Notary Bond
Carefully review the information on your notary bond for accuracy. Sign at the red “X” exactly as your name is printed on the top line. This is how your commission and notary supplies will be issued.
Once signed, scan and save your bond as a PDF. You will need to upload this document during the online application process
Step 3: Complete the Arkansas Notary Exam
Visit the Arkansas Notary Exam Portal and follow the instructions to start your exam. You may use the State of Arkansas Notary Handbook and FAQs as a study guide.
Once you pass the exam, save your exam certificate as a PDF. You will upload this file during the online application process.
Step 4: Submit Your Notary Application to the Secretary of State
Visit the Arkansas Secretary of State’s website and create an account. Select “New Notary Public Application” under the Forms tab. Proceed with the application questions, upload your signed bond, exam results, any additional documents requested, and pay the required state filing fee.
Step 5: Complete the Oath of Commission with the Recorder of Deeds/Circuit Clerk
Once your application is approved, you will receive two Oath of Commission Certificates in your online account. Take both oaths and your original bond to the Recorder of Deeds or Circuit Clerk in your county of commission to take your notary oath and pay the mandatory county filing fee.
Note: Fees vary by county; you may contact your local office to confirm the amount.
Step 6: Obtain Your Notary Commission Certificate
Return one of your original Oath of Commission Certificates with the circuit clerk's file mark to the Secretary of State. Once received, the state will issue your official Certificate of Commission, signed by the Arkansas Secretary of State and containing your commission number.
⚠️ Important: You are not officially recognized as a notary public until your oath is filed with both the county and the state.
Step 7: Receive Your Notary Supplies
Email a copy of your Certificate of Commission (with your expiration date and commission number) to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. Upon receipt, your notary supplies will be shipped within three business days.
How Much Does It Cost to Become a Notary in Arkansas?
The cost of becoming a notary in Arkansas includes several components. First, there is a $20 application fee payable to the Arkansas Secretary of State, along with a county fee that varies by county. Additionally, the notary bond is $35 if purchased from Notary Public Underwriters. Other expenses depend on the type of notary stamp, record book, and insurance purchased, as well as any additional supplies needed.
Arkansas Notary Public FAQs
What Is a Notary Bond?
All Arkansas applicants must obtain a $7,500 surety bond, also known as a notary bond, from an approved bonding agency such as Notary Public Underwriters. This bond is intended to protect the public from financial loss caused by notarial misconduct.
How Do I Obtain a Notary Bond in Arkansas?
Visit our Become a Notary page where you will be able to purchase the notary bond and other state-required items.
Not a new applicant? Visit our Renew Commission page!
How Long Does It Take to Become a Notary in Arkansas?
The timeframe to become a notary in Arkansas varies based on how quickly each step is completed and the processing time at the Department of State. Once you have purchased your bond, you will be able to download it instantly to complete the next step of the process.
How Long Does an Arkansas Notary Commission Last?
Each notary public commission lasts for a period of 10 years from the date of appointment. To maintain your status as a notary, you will need to renew your commission before it expires.
How Is My Arkansas County of Commission Determined?
Your county of commission is based on your county of residence. If you reside outside of Arkansas but work within the state, your county of commission will be the county of your Arkansas employer.
I Received Two Certificates From the Secretary of State’s Office. What Do I Do Next?
Take both certificates along with your original notary bond to the Recorder of Deeds in your county of commission. Most often the Recorder of Deeds is your Circuit Clerk. The Recorder of Deeds will administer your oath of office and sign both certificates. One completed certificate and your original bond will be filed with the Recorder of Deeds. The second completed certificate must be returned to the Secretary of State’s office. When your certificate has been processed by the Secretary of State, you will receive the oath back along with your notary public identification card and commission certificate and be placed into “good standing.”
I Was Sworn in at the Courthouse and They Signed My Certificates. Do I Need to Do Anything After That?
Yes, you still have one important step left. You must return one completed notary certificate to the Arkansas Secretary of State’s Office as soon as possible.
Your notary commission will not be placed in “good standing,” and you will not receive your commission number, until the Secretary of State receives and processes this certificate.
Where in Arkansas May I Notarize Documents?
As a commissioned notary public in Arkansas, you may notarize documents anywhere within the state. Your authority is statewide and is not limited to your county of commission.
We hope you find this guide informative. If you have additional questions regarding how to become a notary in Arkansas, please contact us at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or 800.821.0823. We are always happy to assist.