How to Become a Notary in Massachusetts (2026)
Step-by-step guide to getting your Massachusetts notary commission — fees, bond, exam, and timeline. All data from official Massachusetts state sources.
How to Become a Notary in Massachusetts — Step by Step
Meet the eligibility requirements
To become a notary in Massachusetts, you must be at least 18 years old, a legal U.S. resident, and either a resident of Massachusetts or regularly employed there. You cannot have felony convictions (in most states) unless your civil rights have been restored.
Submit your application to the Governor's Council
File your completed notary application with the Governor's Council and pay the $60 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 Massachusetts notary seal or stamp and a notary journal/record book. Most states require a specific seal format — check the Governor's Council requirements for approved shapes, ink colors, and required text. Supplies typically cost $30–$60. Estimated cost for Massachusetts: $40.
Start notarizing — and consider signing agent training
Once commissioned, you can begin performing notarizations in Massachusetts. Traditional notary fees in Massachusetts: market rate (no state cap). For higher earnings, consider training as a notary signing agent (see below).
Get Your Massachusetts Notary Training Materials
NotaryPublicCentral has state-specific study guides and training for Massachusetts. Use code LEGALCOSTCALC for $10 off.
Massachusetts Notary Commission — Cost Summary
| State application fee | $60 |
| Commission term | 7 years |
| Surety bond | Not required |
| Exam | Not required |
| Education course | Not required |
| Notary supplies (stamp + journal) | ~$40 |
| Filing office | Governor's Council |
| RON available | No |
| Est. total startup cost | $100–$100 |
Notaries are appointed by the Governor's Council — not the Secretary of State. 7-year term. No bond required.
Source: Governor's Council — Official Massachusetts Notary Page ↗
What Can a Massachusetts Notary Charge?
Massachusetts has no state-set maximum — notaries set their own fees. Typical market rates are $10–$25 per signature. No state maximum. Notaries set reasonable fees.
Earn $75–$200 Per Signing as a Massachusetts Notary Signing Agent
Once you have your Massachusetts 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 →