How to Become a Notary in Kentucky (2026 Guide)

Published February 8, 2023 · Updated May 21, 2026

Kentucky is one of the easiest states to become a notary. No exam, no training course, just a $1,000 surety bond, and no set fee cap. The process runs through the Secretary of State and your county clerk, and you can typically complete it within 30 days of approval.

With all the responsibility and honor that comes with it, becoming a notary is no small decision.

But it can be both fulfilling and beneficial if you’re up for the challenge and willing to put in the effort to meet all requirements.

This blog post will give an overview of what it takes to become a notary public in Kentucky, covering everything from initial qualifications for candidacy to submitting your application.

We hope this helps make your journey toward becoming a trusted public servant as smooth as possible!

Meet State of Kentucky Notary Requirements to be a Notary Public

To apply for a Kentucky notary commission, you must meet these requirements:

• You must be 18 years old or older.
• You must be a citizen or permanent legal resident of the United States.
• You must live in or work in the Kentucky county where you apply.
• You need to be able to read and write English.

Who can’t become Kentucky notaries?

Notaries must be of good moral character. Therefore, an applicant may be denied appointment as a Kentucky notary public for:

• Not complying with Kentucky notary laws;
• Committing fraud, deceit, or omission on the Kentucky notary application;
• Being convicted of any felony or any other crime involving fraud, dishonesty, or deceit
• Failure to discharge the duties of a Kentucky notary public imposed by statute or administrative regulation
• The use of false or misleading advertising
• Representing that the Kentucky notary has a right, duty, or privilege that the Kentucky notary does not have
• Having had a notary commission in another set denied, refused, revoked, or suspended
• Failing to maintain a notary surety bond.

How do you become a notary public in Kentucky?

Once you’ve met the basic qualifications to be a notary in Kentucky, it’s time to start the application process.

The first step is to complete and submit the Kentucky notary public application form on Kentucky’s Secretary of State website and pay the application fee.

If your application is approved, you have 30 days to visit the county clerk to take your oath of office and file your certificate of appointment. You must file a $1,000 surety bond (called an “assurance”) with the county clerk at the same time you take your oath. The bond costs about $30-$40 from a surety company.

What can a Notary Public do in Kentucky?

A Kentucky notary has a variety of responsibilities, some of which include:

• taking acknowledgments
• administering oaths and affirmations
• taking verifications
• certifying that a copy of a document is a true copy
• certifying depositions
• protesting negotiable instruments
• witnessing or attesting signatures
• performing other notarial acts authorized by Kentucky Revised Statutes
• certifying that a tangible copy of an electronic record is an accurate copy of the electronic record if the notary has taken reasonable steps to confirm the accuracy of that certification.

Is notary training or an exam required to become a notary or to renew a notary commission in Kentucky?

No training or exam is required to become a Kentucky notary.

However, it is highly recommended that you familiarize yourself with basic notary laws and procedures before taking on the Kentucky notary public role before you perform notarial acts.

Your county clerk can provide additional information about becoming a Kentucky notary.

Is a notary bond required to become a notary in Kentucky?

Yes, all Kentucky notaries must post a $1,000 surety bond to be appointed as a notary public. The surety bond serves as financial protection for the public and ensures that notaries will perform their duties according to state laws.

The bond cost is typically a small percentage of the bond amount.

Is a notary errors and omissions insurance policy required to become a notary in Kentucky?

No, notary errors and omissions insurance is not required by the state of Kentucky. Although it is not mandatory, an E&O policy may benefit some notaries as it provides them with financial protection against any negligence or misconduct that may arise during their duty as a Kentucky notary.

A notary must take all reasonable steps to ensure that their notarial acts are performed correctly, and any errors or omissions can be financially damaging. An E&O policy may help protect you if a notary mistake leads to a lawsuit.

A good rule of thumb is to research your options before deciding whether an E&O policy is right for you.

E&O insurance is separate from any bond requirement. Kentucky requires a $1,000 surety bond. E&O insurance is optional but recommended for additional protection.

Both are available for purchase from third-party insurance providers, with the cost depending on the coverage amount, limits, and other factors.

How long is the term of a notary public commission in Kentucky?

A Kentucky notary commission lasts for four years.

A commission can be revoked or suspended at any time for violations or failure to comply with state laws.

For this reason, all Kentucky notaries must remain up-to-date on notary public laws, rules, and regulations.

Do I need to purchase a notary stamp in Kentucky?

No, a notary stamp is not required in Kentucky; however, there are specific notary stamp requirements if a notary decides to use one.

Is a notary journal required in Kentucky?

Do notaries need journals? In some states, it is mandatory, but in Kentucky, it is not. Even though it is not required, keeping records of formal actions is a good idea. Journals provide evidence of the notary’s personal knowledge of the performing of notarization acts.

How much does it cost to become a notary in Kentucky?

The application fee is $10 and must be paid by check.

The notary bond should cost between $30-$40.

You can make an optional investment in a notary seal or stamp, with prices ranging from as low as $15 to up to $25, depending on the type you choose and where you purchase it. A notary journal is also available for between $10 -$50, depending on quality.

How long does it take to become a notary in Kentucky?

After your application is accepted by the Office of the Secretary of State, you will receive written notification. You must complete your appointment within 30 days. This includes taking an oath and providing surety at the county clerk’s office. So the length of the process can vary depending on how long you wait to take this oath.

Can I perform remote online notarization in Kentucky?

Yes, remote online notarization is allowed in Kentucky.

To perform notarial acts remotely, the notary must have a current notary public commission and apply separately to be an electronic notary. This includes selecting an approved technology provider and confirming that the same digital certificate will be used across all platforms.

How much can a Kentucky notary public charge for performing notarial acts?

In Kentucky, there is no set fee that notaries can charge. But before they do a notarization, the notary must tell the person how much it will cost.

How do you become a signing agent in Kentucky?

Becoming a notary signing agent in Kentucky requires that you first be commissioned as a notary public. You should also complete a Notary Signing Agent training course and pass an exam. After passing the exam, you may need to submit additional documents to register with companies offering loan signings.

Finally, stay current on state laws, regulations, and best practices to protect yourself and your clients.

Once you have completed all the requirements to become a Notary Signing Agent, you can begin marketing yourself as a professional notary services provider. You may join an association or network with other Kentucky notaries to increase your visibility to get more notary jobs.

You can also create a website, advertise your services on social media and other online platforms, and attend local networking events to make connections.

By taking the necessary steps to become a Notary Signing Agent in Kentucky, you can provide a valuable service to customers who need document notarizations. You will also be able to earn extra income as a Notary Signing Agent, as there is a growing demand for notarial services.

Good luck with your new notary career!

How Much Can Kentucky Notaries Charge?

Kentucky does not set a statutory maximum fee for notarizations. Notaries may charge a reasonable fee.

Can You Notarize for Family Members in Kentucky?

Kentucky does not explicitly prohibit notarizing for family members. You cannot notarize a document in which you have a direct financial interest.

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 Kentucky Compares to Neighboring States

Requirement	Kentucky	Ohio	Indiana	Tennessee	Missouri
Bond	$1,000	None	$25,000	$10,000	$10,000
Exam	No	Yes	Yes (80%)	No	No
Training	No	3 hours	Yes	No	No
Term	4 years	5 years	8 years	4 years	4 years
Max Fee	None	$5	$5	None	$5
RON	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes

Kentucky is one of the easiest states to become a notary: only a $1,000 bond, no exam, no training, no fee cap. Indiana overhauled requirements in May 2026 ($25K bond, exam, education, background check). Ohio requires bond and E&O insurance. Missouri requires a $10,000 bond.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a notary exam in Kentucky?

No. Kentucky does not require a notary exam or training course.

Do I need a surety bond in Kentucky?

Yes. Kentucky requires a $1,000 surety bond (KRS 423.390). The bond costs about $30-$40 and must be filed with your county clerk.

How long does a Kentucky notary commission last?

4 years. Submit your renewal application before your current commission expires.

Is a notary stamp required in Kentucky?

Yes. All Kentucky notaries must have an official seal.

Can Kentucky notaries perform remote online notarizations?

Yes. Kentucky permits RON. You must register with the Secretary of State and use approved technology.

How much can a Kentucky notary charge?

Kentucky does not set a maximum fee. You may charge a reasonable fee.