How to become a notary in Kentucky
Notaries in Kentucky are commissioned by the Kentucky Secretary of State, Notary Commissions (oath and bond filed with the county clerk). Here is who can apply, what it takes and what it costs, from the state's own rules, checked November 4, 2026.
Who can become a notary in Kentucky?
- At least 18 years old
- U.S. citizen or permanent legal resident
- Resident of, or employed or practicing in, the Kentucky county where you apply
- Able to read and write English
- Not disqualified under KRS 423.395
What are the Kentucky notary requirements?
| Commissioned by | Kentucky Secretary of State, Notary Commissions (oath and bond filed with the county clerk) |
|---|---|
| Training required | No. No training is listed among the requirements in KRS 423.390 or on the Secretary of State page. |
| Exam required | No. No exam is listed in KRS 423.390. |
| Surety bond | $1,000 |
| Application fee | $10 (payable to the Kentucky State Treasurer); county clerk charges separate filing and oath fees |
| Commission term | 4 years |
| Remote online notarization | Yes: a commissioned notary must register with the Secretary of State before performing electronic or online (remote) notarial acts (KRS 423.390(10)). |
Steps to become a notary in Kentucky
- Complete the Notary Public State at Large application (online or by mail)
- Pay the $10 fee to the Kentucky State Treasurer
- Wait for the Secretary of State's approval notice
- Within 30 days, go in person to the county clerk named in your application
- Take the oath, file a $1,000 surety bond and your commission, and pay the clerk's fees
- Begin notarizing once the bond is on file with the county clerk
Apply on the official Kentucky site
How do you find a notary in Kentucky?
- 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.
- Check that a notary is commissioned on the official Kentucky notary lookup.