How to Become a Notary in Arkansas (2026)
Step-by-step guide to getting your Arkansas notary commission — fees, bond, exam, and timeline. All data from official Arkansas state sources.
How to Become a Notary in Arkansas — Step by Step
Meet the eligibility requirements
To become a notary in Arkansas, you must be at least 18 years old, a legal U.S. resident, and either a resident of Arkansas or regularly employed there. You cannot have felony convictions (in most states) unless your civil rights have been restored.
Complete the required education course
Arkansas requires you to complete a state-approved notary education course before applying. Courses are available from approved providers and can typically be completed online. Fees vary by provider, usually $20–$80.
Obtain your $7,500 surety bond
Arkansas requires a $7,500 surety bond before you can be commissioned. Purchase the bond from a licensed insurance or surety company — the actual premium typically costs $40–$100 for your entire 10-year term. The bond protects the public from errors you may make as a notary; it does not protect you personally.
Submit your application to the Secretary of State
File your completed notary application with the Secretary of State and pay the $20 application fee. Include proof of your surety bond with the application. Include your certificate of course completion. Most states now accept online applications.
Receive your commission and take your oath of office
After your application is approved, you'll receive your notary commission certificate. You must then take an official oath of office — typically before a notary public, judge, or court clerk — within 30–90 days. Missing this deadline can void your commission entirely.
Purchase your notary supplies
Order your official Arkansas notary seal or stamp and a notary journal/record book. Most states require a specific seal format — check the Secretary of State requirements for approved shapes, ink colors, and required text. Supplies typically cost $30–$60. Estimated cost for Arkansas: $45.
Start notarizing — and consider signing agent training
Once commissioned, you can begin performing notarizations in Arkansas. Traditional notary fees in Arkansas: market rate (no state cap). For higher earnings, consider training as a notary signing agent (see below).
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NotaryPublicCentral has state-specific study guides and training for Arkansas. Use code LEGALCOSTCALC for $10 off.
Arkansas Notary Commission — Cost Summary
| State application fee | $20 |
| Commission term | 10 years |
| Surety bond | $7,500 face value (~$40–$100 to purchase) |
| Exam | Not required |
| Education course | Required |
| Notary supplies (stamp + journal) | ~$45 |
| Filing office | Secretary of State |
| RON available | No |
| Est. total startup cost | $105–$245 |
10-year commission term — one of the longest in the country. State-approved education course required before commissioning.
Source: Secretary of State — Official Arkansas Notary Page ↗
What Can a Arkansas Notary Charge?
Arkansas has no state-set maximum — notaries set their own fees. Typical market rates are $10–$25 per signature. No state maximum. Notaries may charge reasonable fees with advance disclosure.
Source: Arkansas Notary Fee Authority ↗
Earn $75–$200 Per Signing as a Arkansas Notary Signing Agent
Once you have your Arkansas notary commission, you can earn serious income as a signing agent at real estate loan closings. Loan Signing System teaches you how to find clients and run a full signing business.
Explore Notary Signing Agent Training →