How to Become a Notary in New Jersey (2026)
Step-by-step guide to getting your New Jersey notary commission — fees, bond, exam, and timeline. All data from official New Jersey state sources.
How to Become a Notary in New Jersey — Step by Step
Meet the eligibility requirements
To become a notary in New Jersey, you must be at least 18 years old, a legal U.S. resident, and either a resident of New Jersey or regularly employed there. You cannot have felony convictions (in most states) unless your civil rights have been restored.
Complete the required education course
New Jersey requires you to complete a state-approved notary education course before applying. The course is 6 hours. Courses are available from approved providers and can typically be completed online. Fees vary by provider, usually $20–$80.
Pass the notary exam
New Jersey requires all applicants to pass a written notary exam. Schedule your exam through the state or an approved testing provider. Study the New Jersey notary handbook — available free from the State Treasurer / Division of Revenue.
Submit your application to the State Treasurer / Division of Revenue
File your completed notary application with the State Treasurer / Division of Revenue and pay the $25 application fee. Include your certificate of course completion. Include your exam pass certificate. 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 New Jersey notary seal or stamp and a notary journal/record book. Most states require a specific seal format — check the State Treasurer / Division of Revenue requirements for approved shapes, ink colors, and required text. Supplies typically cost $30–$60. Estimated cost for New Jersey: $45.
Start notarizing — and consider signing agent training
Once commissioned, you can begin performing notarizations in New Jersey. Traditional notary fees in New Jersey: up to $2.5 per act (state-capped). For higher earnings, consider training as a notary signing agent (see below).
Get Your New Jersey Notary Training Materials
NotaryPublicCentral has state-specific study guides and training for New Jersey. Use code LEGALCOSTCALC for $10 off.
New Jersey Notary Commission — Cost Summary
| State application fee | $25 |
| Commission term | 5 years |
| Surety bond | Not required |
| Exam | Required |
| Education course | Required — 6 hours |
| Notary supplies (stamp + journal) | ~$45 |
| Filing office | State Treasurer / Division of Revenue |
| RON available | No |
| Est. total startup cost | $70–$150 |
6-hour approved course and exam required for new applicants. $5 online convenience fee. Commission filed with state Treasurer, then recorded with the county clerk. 5-year term.
Source: State Treasurer / Division of Revenue — Official New Jersey Notary Page ↗
What Can a New Jersey Notary Charge?
New Jersey caps notary fees at $2.5 per notarial act. Standard $2.50 per act; $15 for real-estate transfer grantors per transaction. RON fee not set by statute.
Earn $75–$200 Per Signing as a New Jersey Notary Signing Agent
Once you have your New Jersey 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 →