Notary Public Underwriters Blog
How to Complete Your Notary Swearing-In Process in Arkansas
- Details
- Published: May 19, 2025
An Arkansas notary public candidate—seeking a new or renewal commission—must be sworn in to office by the appropriate Arkansas Recorder of Deeds/Circuit Clerk.
The following information will help you visit the right county clerk to complete your notary public swearing-in process with the correct documentation you need to bring for a successful notary public oath of office (swearing-in).
The following steps apply to those who have already completed all other requirements for obtaining their notary commission, and they now need to be sworn in to office.
Which Arkansas clerk’s office should you visit for your notary public oath of office?
If you are a legal resident of Arkansas:
- See the clerk of your county of residence.
If you are a legal resident of an adjoining state and employed in or operating a business in Arkansas:
- See the clerk of your Arkansas county where you work or operate a business.
What documentation must you bring to be sworn in as an Arkansas notary public?
All Arkansas notary public applicants:
- A current form of government-issued identification including your photograph and signature (driver’s license, passport)
- Your Oath of Commission Certificate. Print out two copies of this document, which will be provided to you electronically by the Secretary of State after the Secretary has approved your new or renewing notary public application (which you submit online via the Secretary’s website). Do NOT sign the two copies of the “Oath of Commission Certificate” until you are told to do so in the presence of the circuit court clerk or county recorder.
- Your original surety bond.
In addition, if you are NOT a United States citizen or a permanent legal resident, you must include a copy of a recorded Declaration of Domicile.
Important: A county filing fee is required when you take your oath of office. The fee varies by county, so be sure to contact your county clerk’s office in advance to confirm the amount and acceptable payment methods.
Arkansas’ Secretary of State provides (only) an online process for initiating a notary public application, whether for a new or renewing notary public commission.
Notary Public Underwriters gives every notary public applicant a choice… applying online or downloading a comprehensive packet of the forms and instructions you need to make your application process a breeze. And, if you need assistance or have any questions, our expert Arkansas customer service team is ready to help. Just call 800-821-0823 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
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