How to become a notary in Tennessee
Notaries in Tennessee are commissioned by the Tennessee Secretary of State, after election by the county legislative body (county commission) through 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.
The state's website could not be fully reached when we checked, so some details come from Tennessee law and official forms. Confirm them on the official page before you apply.
Who can become a notary in Tennessee?
- At least 18 years old
- Live in, or have your principal place of business in, the county where you seek election
What are the Tennessee notary requirements?
| Commissioned by | Tennessee Secretary of State, after election by the county legislative body (county commission) through the County Clerk |
|---|---|
| Training required | No. No training is listed in the Secretary of State's steps. |
| Exam required | No. No exam is listed in the Secretary of State's steps. |
| Surety bond | $10,000 |
| Application fee | Set by county; Knox County lists $12.00 |
| Commission term | 4 years |
| Remote online notarization | Yes; Tennessee has a separate online notary registration with the Secretary of State for people who are already commissioned notaries (counties are not involved). |
Steps to become a notary in Tennessee
- Get the notary application from your County Clerk's office (each county has its own form and deadlines)
- File the completed application with the County Clerk and pay the fee
- Be elected by the county commission in the county where you live or have your main place of business
- The County Clerk sends your paperwork to the state; the Secretary of State issues the commission and returns it to the clerk
- Buy a $10,000 surety bond from a Tennessee surety and give proof to the County Clerk
- Take the oath before the County Clerk and pick up your commission
- Get your notary seal
How do you find a notary in Tennessee?
- 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 Tennessee notary lookup.