How to Become a Notary in Pennsylvania (2026)
Step-by-step guide to getting your Pennsylvania notary commission — fees, bond, exam, and timeline. All data from official Pennsylvania state sources.
How to Become a Notary in Pennsylvania — Step by Step
Meet the eligibility requirements
To become a notary in Pennsylvania, you must be at least 18 years old, a legal U.S. resident, and either a resident of Pennsylvania or regularly employed there. You cannot have felony convictions (in most states) unless your civil rights have been restored.
Complete the required education course
Pennsylvania requires you to complete a state-approved notary education course before applying. The course is 3 hours. Courses are available from approved providers and can typically be completed online. Fees vary by provider, usually $20–$80.
Obtain your $10,000 surety bond
Pennsylvania requires a $10,000 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 4-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 Department of State
File your completed notary application with the Department of State and pay the $42 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 Pennsylvania notary seal or stamp and a notary journal/record book. Most states require a specific seal format — check the Department of State requirements for approved shapes, ink colors, and required text. Supplies typically cost $30–$60. Estimated cost for Pennsylvania: $50.
Start notarizing — and consider signing agent training
Once commissioned, you can begin performing notarizations in Pennsylvania. Traditional notary fees in Pennsylvania: up to $5 per act (state-capped). For higher earnings, consider training as a notary signing agent (see below).
Get Your Pennsylvania Notary Training Materials
NotaryPublicCentral has state-specific study guides and training for Pennsylvania. Use code LEGALCOSTCALC for $10 off.
Pennsylvania Notary Commission — Cost Summary
| State application fee | $42 |
| Commission term | 4 years |
| Surety bond | $10,000 face value (~$40–$100 to purchase) |
| Exam | Not required |
| Education course | Required — 3 hours |
| Notary supplies (stamp + journal) | ~$50 |
| Filing office | Department of State |
| RON available | No |
| Est. total startup cost | $132–$272 |
3-hour state-approved education course required. Total startup cost including bond and education typically $300–$400.
Source: Department of State — Official Pennsylvania Notary Page ↗
What Can a Pennsylvania Notary Charge?
Pennsylvania caps notary fees at $5 per notarial act. $5 per act ($2 for each additional name on same document). Notaries must inform signers of fees. RON fee not set by statute.
Earn $75–$200 Per Signing as a Pennsylvania Notary Signing Agent
Once you have your Pennsylvania 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 →