How to become a notary in New Jersey
Notaries in New Jersey are commissioned by the New Jersey State Treasurer, Division of Revenue and Enterprise Services (DORES). 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 New Jersey?
- At least 18 years old
- New Jersey resident, or has a place of employment or practice in New Jersey (including remote employees of a New Jersey-based business)
- Not disqualified (certain convictions require Attorney General approval)
- Application endorsed by a New Jersey state legislator
What are the New Jersey notary requirements?
| Commissioned by | New Jersey State Treasurer, Division of Revenue and Enterprise Services (DORES) |
|---|---|
| Training required | Yes. Non-attorney initial applicants must complete the State Treasurer's six-hour course (Notary Public Manual and training video series). Renewals need a three-hour continuing education course. |
| Exam required | Yes. Non-attorney initial applicants must pass an online exam; the Treasurer may charge up to $15 per test. |
| Surety bond | None stated by the state |
| Application fee | $25 |
| Commission term | 5 years |
| Remote online notarization | Yes; under P.L. 2021, c.179 a New Jersey notary located in the state may notarize for remotely located individuals after notifying the State Treasurer and identifying the technology used. |
Steps to become a notary in New Jersey
- Read the NJ Notary Public Manual and watch the training video series
- Complete the Notary Commissioning Application on the NJ portal (attorneys skip the exam)
- Take and pass the online Notary Public Exam
- Complete the Notary Registration Application, get legislator endorsement, and pay the $25 fee
- Receive your commission certificate from DORES
- Within three months, take the oath before the county clerk where you live (or work, for nonresidents); the county charges a recording fee
Apply on the official New Jersey site
How do you find a notary in New Jersey?
- 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 New Jersey notary lookup.