How to Become a Notary in Arizona (2026 Guide)
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Key Takeaways
- New exam requirement: Since July 1, 2025, all new and renewing AZ notaries must pass a state exam
- $5,000 surety bond required
- No training course required (but recommended)
- Application fee: $43 | Commission term: 4 years
- Must be 18+, an AZ resident, and have no felony convictions
- RON (remote online notarization) available
Arizona added a notary exam requirement effective July 1, 2025. If you’re applying or renewing, you must now pass a competency exam before receiving your commission. Here’s the full process.
Requirements
To become a notary public in Arizona, you must:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Be an Arizona resident
- Have no felony convictions (unless rights restored)
- Be able to read and write English
Step-by-Step Application Process
Step 1: Pass the Notary Exam
Since July 1, 2025, all new and renewing Arizona notary applicants must pass a notary competency exam administered by Prometric. The 45-question open-book exam is based on the Arizona Notary Public Reference Manual and administered by Prometric at testing sites statewide or remotely. You need an 80% score to pass, and the exam costs $46.75. If you fail, you can retake it after 30 days. You must pass before submitting your application.
Step 2: Purchase Your $5,000 Surety Bond
Arizona requires a $5,000 surety bond. Purchase it from a bonding company or insurance agent. The bond premium typically costs $25-$50 for the 4-year term.
Step 3: Submit Your Application Online
Complete the notary application through the Arizona Secretary of State’s online portal. Upload your exam results and bond. Pay the $43 filing fee.
Step 4: Buy Your Supplies
Once approved, purchase your notary stamp (required) and journal (recommended). You can start notarizing once you have your stamp and commission certificate.
Costs to Get Commissioned
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| Notary exam (Prometric) | $46.75 |
| $5,000 surety bond premium | $25-$50 |
| Application fee (Secretary of State) | $43 |
| Notary stamp | $15-$25 |
| Notary journal (recommended) | $10-$50 |
| Total | $140-$215 |
Errors and Omissions Insurance
Not required, but recommended. E&O insurance protects you beyond the $5,000 bond. Most Arizona notaries carry at least $10,000 in E&O coverage.
Renewal
Arizona notary commissions last 4 years. You must pass the exam again and purchase a new bond for each renewal. Apply through the Secretary of State before your commission expires.
Fee Schedule
Arizona sets a maximum fee of $10 per notarial act. For electronic notarizations, the maximum is $25. You may charge a travel fee if agreed upon in advance.
Notarizing for Family Members
Arizona does not have a specific prohibition on notarizing for family members. The standard conflict-of-interest rules apply: you cannot notarize documents in which you have a direct financial or beneficial interest. Use caution with spouse notarizations involving shared assets.
Penalties for Notary Misconduct
- Notarizing without authority: misdemeanor
- Fraud or forgery: felony charges
- Commission revocation, the Secretary of State can revoke your commission
- Civil liability. You can be held personally liable for damages
Employer Obligations
- Your commission is personal. It cannot be controlled by your employer
- If you leave your job, your stamp goes with you
- Your employer cannot require you to skip proper procedures
How Arizona Compares to Neighboring States
| Requirement | Arizona | California | Nevada | New Mexico |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bond | $5,000 | $15,000 | $10,000 | $10,000 |
| Exam | Yes ($46.75) | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Training | Yes | 6 hours | Yes | Yes |
| Term | 4 years | 4 years | 4 years | 4 years |
| Max Fee | $10 | $15 | $15 | $5 |
| RON | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Arizona’s $5,000 bond is the lowest in the region. California has the most expensive entry ($15,000 bond + 6-hour course). Nevada and California both cap fees at $15, while Arizona caps at $10 and New Mexico at $5.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a notary exam in Arizona?
Yes, since July 1, 2025. All new and renewing Arizona notaries must pass a competency exam administered by Prometric.
Is notary training required in Arizona?
Training is not required, but the state recommends it. You must pass the exam regardless.
Do I need a surety bond in Arizona?
Yes. Arizona requires a $5,000 surety bond for all notary applicants.
How long does an Arizona notary commission last?
4 years. Renew through the Arizona Secretary of State before your commission expires.
Can Arizona notaries perform remote online notarizations?
Yes. Arizona authorized RON. Apply for electronic notary status through the Secretary of State.
Related Reading
- How to Become a Notary Signing Agent
- How to Become a Notary in California
- How to Become a Notary in Texas
- Dual Tray Laser Printer Recommendations for Signing Agents
Updated May 2026. Requirements based on the Arizona Secretary of State and the new exam requirement effective July 1, 2025.
