How to become a notary in New Hampshire
Notaries in New Hampshire are commissioned by the Governor and Executive Council; applications handled by the New Hampshire Secretary of State. 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 New Hampshire law and official forms. Confirm them on the official page before you apply.
Who can become a notary in New Hampshire?
- New Hampshire resident, or resident of an abutting state who is a registered notary there and regularly works or does business in New Hampshire
- Endorsed by two New Hampshire notaries and one New Hampshire registered voter
- Sworn statement disclosing any unannulled criminal conviction (other than minor traffic violations)
What are the New Hampshire notary requirements?
| Commissioned by | Governor and Executive Council; applications handled by the New Hampshire Secretary of State |
|---|---|
| Training required | No. RSA 455 sets no course requirement. |
| Exam required | No. RSA 455 sets no exam requirement. |
| Surety bond | None stated by the state |
| Application fee | $75 |
| Commission term | 5 years |
| Remote online notarization | Yes; RSA 456-B:6-a authorizes New Hampshire notaries to perform notarial acts for remotely located individuals using communication technology, with a journal kept for 10 years. |
Steps to become a notary in New Hampshire
- Get the Notary Public Application from the Secretary of State (abutting-state residents use the out-of-state version with an affidavit)
- Have the application endorsed by two New Hampshire notaries and one registered voter
- Complete the sworn criminal-conviction statement
- Mail the original application with the $75 fee to the Secretary of State
- Wait for appointment by the Governor with consent of the Executive Council
- Take the oath of office as instructed in your commission papers before acting as a notary
How do you find a notary in New Hampshire?
- 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.