How to become a notary in Rhode Island
Notaries in Rhode Island are commissioned by the Rhode Island Department of State (Secretary of State), Business Services Division - Notary. 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 Rhode Island?
- At least 18 years old
- U.S. citizen or permanent legal resident
- Live in Rhode Island or have a place of employment or practice there (RI attorneys and CPAs in good standing are exempt from residency)
- Able to read and write English
- Not disqualified under RIGL 42-30.1-16
- Show sufficient knowledge of a notary's powers and duties
What are the Rhode Island notary requirements?
| Commissioned by | Rhode Island Department of State (Secretary of State), Business Services Division - Notary |
|---|---|
| Training required | No. The state offers free notary training and asks applicants to review the notary manual, RIGL 42-30.1 and the Standards of Conduct; the training page presents the course as optional. |
| Exam required | The application page tells applicants to take the online Notary Knowledge Assessment and score at least 80%, but the statute (RIGL 42-30.1-15) only requires showing sufficient knowledge and does not set a formal exam. |
| Surety bond | None stated by the state |
| Application fee | $80 |
| Commission term | 4 years |
| Remote online notarization | Yes; a commissioned Rhode Island notary may perform remote online notarization after subscribing to an approved solution provider and registering with the Department of State, and must wait for email confirmation before starting. |
Steps to become a notary in Rhode Island
- Review the requirements, notary manual and Standards of Conduct (free training is available)
- Take the Notary Knowledge Assessment and aim for at least 80%
- Fill out both pages of the Notary Application with original signatures
- Take the Oath of Office before a Rhode Island notary, who completes the notarial certificate
- Mail or deliver the application with the $80 non-refundable fee (check or money order to RI Department of State) to 148 West River Street, Providence; email is not accepted
- Receive your commission certificate by mail (about 3-5 business days)
- Buy an inked notary stamp
How do you find a notary in Rhode Island?
- 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 Rhode Island notary lookup.