How to Become a Notary in Iowa (2026)
Step-by-step guide to getting your Iowa notary commission — fees, bond, exam, and timeline. All data from official Iowa state sources.
How to Become a Notary in Iowa — Step by Step
Meet the eligibility requirements
To become a notary in Iowa, you must be at least 18 years old, a legal U.S. resident, and either a resident of Iowa or regularly employed there. You cannot have felony convictions (in most states) unless your civil rights have been restored.
Submit your application to the Secretary of State
File your completed notary application with the Secretary of State and pay the $30 application fee. 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 Iowa 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 Iowa: $40.
Start notarizing — and consider signing agent training
Once commissioned, you can begin performing notarizations in Iowa. Traditional notary fees in Iowa: market rate (no state cap). For higher earnings, consider training as a notary signing agent (see below).
Get Your Iowa Notary Training Materials
NotaryPublicCentral has state-specific study guides and training for Iowa. Use code LEGALCOSTCALC for $10 off.
Iowa Notary Commission — Cost Summary
| State application fee | $30 |
| Commission term | 3 years |
| Surety bond | Not required |
| Exam | Not required |
| Education course | Not required |
| Notary supplies (stamp + journal) | ~$40 |
| Filing office | Secretary of State |
| RON available | No |
| Est. total startup cost | $70–$70 |
3-year commission term. No bond required.
What Can a Iowa Notary Charge?
Iowa has no state-set maximum — notaries set their own fees. Typical market rates are $10–$25 per signature. No state maximum. Notaries set fees with advance disclosure.
Source: Iowa Notary Fee Authority ↗
Earn $75–$200 Per Signing as a Iowa Notary Signing Agent
Once you have your Iowa 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 →