How to become a notary in Massachusetts
Notaries in Massachusetts are commissioned by the Governor with the Governor's Council (Notary Public Office); oath and fee handled by the Secretary of the Commonwealth. 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 Massachusetts law and official forms. Confirm them on the official page before you apply.
Who can become a notary in Massachusetts?
- At least 18 years old
- Live in Massachusetts, or have a regular place of work or business there
What are the Massachusetts notary requirements?
| Commissioned by | Governor with the Governor's Council (Notary Public Office); oath and fee handled by the Secretary of the Commonwealth |
|---|---|
| Training required | No. No training is required for the commission. The Secretary may require a course of up to 3 hours before a notary's first remote notarization (G.L. c. 222 §28). |
| Exam required | No. No exam is required by the official sources reviewed. |
| Surety bond | None stated by the state |
| Application fee | $60 commission fee, paid only after approval (no fee sent with the application) |
| Commission term | 7 years |
| Remote online notarization | Authorized by statute (G.L. c. 222 §28): notaries must register with the state secretary and use a registered technology provider; whether the registration and training are live was not confirmed because the Secretary's page was unreachable. |
Steps to become a notary in Massachusetts
- Complete the paper Notary Public application and attach an up-to-date resume
- Get the reference certificate signed by four people, one of whom must be a Massachusetts attorney in good standing
- Mail the stapled application to the Notary Public Office, Room 184, State House, Boston, MA 02133
- Wait for approval by the Governor and Governor's Council (can take about 18 days)
- Follow the Secretary of the Commonwealth's directions to be sworn in and pay the $60 fee
How do you find a notary in Massachusetts?
- 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.