How to Become a Notary in Rhode Island (2026 Guide)

Published March 15, 2023 · Updated May 21, 2026

Key Takeaways

Notary Knowledge Assessment exam required
No surety bond required
Application fee: $80 | Commission term: 4 years
Notary stamp not required but recommended
RON available
Must be 18+, a RI resident (or working in RI), with no disqualifying convictions

Notary Knowledge Assessment exam required. Here’s how the process works.

Requirements

Be at least 18 years old
Be a resident of Rhode Island or regularly employed in the state
Not be disqualified under RI notary laws

Disqualifying Factors

Rhode Island evaluates applicants on a case-by-case basis. Disqualifying criminal convictions and providing false information can bar you.

Step-by-Step Application Process

Step 1: Pass the Notary Knowledge Assessment

Take and pass the online exam administered by the Rhode Island Department of State.

Step 2: Complete the Application

Fill out and print the online notary application form.

Step 3: Take Your Oath

Bring the application to a Rhode Island notary public to administer your oath of office.

Step 4: Submit Your Application

Mail the application and $80 fee to the RI Department of State.

Costs to Get Commissioned

Item	Cost
Application fee	$80
No bond required	$0
Notary stamp (recommended)	$15-$25
Notary journal (recommended)	$10-$50
Total	$105-$155

Maximum Allowable Fees

Rhode Island sets a maximum of $25 per notarial act for all types (acknowledgments, jurats, verbal oaths, and RON).

Authorized Notarial Acts

Take acknowledgments
Administer oaths and affirmations
Execute jurats
Witness signatures
Certify copies
Protest negotiable instruments

Notary Stamp Requirements

Rhode Island does not require a notary stamp. If you use one, follow state guidelines. Most RI notaries use a stamp for convenience.

Notarizing for Family Members

RI does not explicitly prohibit notarizing for family members. Avoid notarizing documents where you have a direct financial or beneficial interest.

Penalties for Notary Misconduct

The Department of State can revoke your commission for misconduct.

Errors and Omissions Insurance

Not required, but recommended, especially since Rhode Island has no bond requirement.

Renewal

5 years. The renewal process is the same as the initial application.

Remote Online Notarization (RON)

Rhode Island allows RON. Check with the Department of State for registration requirements and approved technology.

Becoming a Signing Agent

After receiving your commission, complete a signing agent certification program. Rhode Island is not an attorney state for real estate closings.

Rhode Island’s $80 application fee is one of the highest in the country. Neighboring Connecticut and Massachusetts charge less. The lack of a bond requirement keeps total costs reasonable.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a notary exam in Rhode Island?

Yes. The Notary Knowledge Assessment exam is required.

Do I need a surety bond in Rhode Island?

No. Rhode Island does not require a surety bond.

How long does a Rhode Island notary commission last?

5 years.

Is a notary stamp required in Rhode Island?

No, but recommended for convenience.

How much can a Rhode Island notary charge?

Rhode Island sets a maximum of $25 per notarial act.

Can Rhode Island notaries perform remote online notarizations?

Yes. Check with the Department of State for registration requirements.

Employer Obligations

Your notary commission is personal. It does not belong to your employer
If you leave your job, your stamp and commission go with you
Your employer cannot require you to skip proper notarization procedures
An employer who pressures you into misconduct may share legal liability

How to Become a Notary in Rhode Island (2026 Guide)

Key Takeaways

Requirements

Disqualifying Factors

Step-by-Step Application Process