How to become a notary in Arizona
Notaries in Arizona are commissioned by the Arizona Secretary of State, Business Services Division. Here is who can apply, what it takes and what it costs, from the state's own rules, checked November 4, 2026.
The state's website could not be fully reached when we checked, so some details come from Arizona law and official forms. Confirm them on the official page before you apply.
Who can become a notary in Arizona?
- At least 18 years old
- U.S. citizen or permanent legal resident
- Arizona resident for income tax purposes, claiming Arizona as primary residence
- Able to read, write and understand English
- Not disqualified (e.g. felony or crime of fraud, dishonesty or deceit)
- Pass the state notary exam
What are the Arizona notary requirements?
| Commissioned by | Arizona Secretary of State, Business Services Division |
|---|---|
| Training required | No. No course is required; applicants must keep the state-approved Notary Public Reference Manual (A.R.S. 41-269) and should study it for the exam. |
| Exam required | Yes. Required for all new and renewing notaries since July 1, 2025 (A.R.S. 41-270). Proctored by Prometric, 45 questions, 60 minutes, 80% to pass, retake after 30 days. The SOS page (July 2026 version) lists a $46.75 exam cost; confirm the current amount with Prometric. |
| Surety bond | $5,000 |
| Application fee | $43 total: $25 application fee plus $18 bond filing fee (A.R.S. 41-126) |
| Commission term | 4 years |
| Remote online notarization | Yes: active Arizona notaries may apply for electronic and remote online notary commissions after contracting with a technology vendor; the SOS says there is no additional fee or bond at this time. |
Steps to become a notary in Arizona
- Register with Prometric and get a Candidate ID
- Take and pass the notary exam
- Buy a 4-year $5,000 surety bond from a licensed surety
- Complete the online application, then print and sign it
- Mail the signed application, original bond and $43 fee together to the Secretary of State
- Receive your commission certificate, then order your seal with your commission number
Apply on the official Arizona site
How do you find a notary in Arizona?
- Banks, credit unions, shipping stores and law offices often have a notary on staff. Call ahead, because not every branch does.
- A mobile notary travels to you for a travel fee on top of the state's notarization fee.
- Bring a current government photo ID and the unsigned document. Don't sign it until the notary watches you.
- A notary checks your identity and witnesses your signature. They can't give legal advice or tell you what a document means unless they are also a lawyer.