Notary Requirements

NOTARY PUBLIC APPOINTMENT (KRS 423.390)

Who can become a notary?

      The following requirements must be met:

  • Must be eighteen (18) years old or older;
  • Be a citizen or permanent legal resident of the United States
  • Be a resident of or have a place of employment or practice in the county within this Commonwealth where the application is made;
  • Be able to read and write English;
  • Not be disqualified to receive a commission under KRS 423.395;
  • Submit to the Secretary of State any application forms, information, disclosures, and verifications as are required by administrative regulations promulgated by the Secretary of State;
  • Submit to the Secretary of State proof of having obtained the requisite surety bond required under KRS 423.390(4) (File actual bond with County Clerk);
  • Take an oath of office as set forth in KRS 423.390(4)

How can I become a notary?

  • Visit the Secretary of State's website to complete the application.  A form signed by the County Clerk is no longer required. The fee for application at the Secretary of State's Office is $10.00.
  • If approved, the applicant will be notified that a "Certificate of Appointment" has been made available to the county clerk's office in the applicant's county. The notice will indicate a thirty (30) day time period for the applicant to go to the county clerk's office.
  • The applicant must come in to the county clerk's office to be sworn in.  The notary must provide government issued ID and bring all notary bond paperwork.  There is a $19.00 recording fee ($10.00 for recording the bond, $4.00 for taking/preparing the bond, and $5.00 for administering the oath. KRS 64.012).  
  • A surety bond in the amount of $1,000.00 is required. As of January 1, 2020, only a bond from an approved insurance company is allowed. Check with the insurance agency of your choice to request your notary bond, and bring all bond paperwork when you visit our office.
If you want to apply to become an electronic or online notary, please contact the Secretary of State's Office for details at (502) 564-3490, or visit their website, www.sos.ky.gov.