How to Become a Notary in New Jersey (2026 Guide)
Published March 14, 2023 · Updated May 21, 2026
Key Takeaways
- Education required: Must read the NJ Notary Public Manual (formal course pending)
- Exam required: Must pass the state notary exam (attorneys exempt)
- Journal required: Must maintain a journal of notarial acts
- No surety bond required
- Application fee: $25 (paper) / $30 (online) | Commission term: 5 years
- Remote and electronic notarization available under P.L. 2021, c. 179
New Jersey overhauled its notary laws with P.L. 2021, c. 179, adding mandatory education, an exam, and journal requirements. Here’s the current process for 2026 applicants.
Requirements
To become a notary public in New Jersey, you must:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Be a New Jersey resident or work in the state
- Have no felony convictions involving moral turpitude
- Be able to read and write English
Step-by-Step Application Process
Step 1: Complete the 6-Hour Training Course
Complete a 6-hour course of study approved by the New Jersey State Treasurer. The course covers notary law, ethics, acknowledgments, jurats, and your responsibilities under the New Jersey Notary Public Act. Attorneys licensed in NJ are exempt from the course and exam.
Step 2: Pass the State Notary Exam
Take and pass the notary examination approved by the State Treasurer. The exam tests your knowledge of NJ notary law, procedures, and ethical obligations.
Step 3: Apply Online and File with Your County
Submit your application electronically through the NJ Notary Public Registration portal. Pay the $15 application fee. Once approved, you’ll receive a commission certificate. File your oath of office with your county clerk.
Step 4: Buy Your Supplies
Purchase your notary stamp (required), journal (required), and any other supplies. Stamps cost $15-$25, journals $10-$50.
How Much Does It Cost?
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| 6-hour training course | $50-$100 (varies) |
| Application fee | $15 |
| Notary stamp | $15-$25 |
| Notary journal | $10-$50 |
| Total | $90-$190 |
Do You Need a Surety Bond?
No. New Jersey does not require a surety bond or E&O insurance. However, E&O insurance is recommended to protect yourself from liability.
Renewal
New Jersey notary commissions last 5 years. Renew online through the NJ portal. You must retake the training course and exam. Apply before your commission expires to avoid a gap.
Becoming a Signing Agent in New Jersey
New Jersey is an attorney state for real estate closings, but many NJ notaries build signing agent businesses handling out-of-state loan packages. After getting commissioned, take a signing agent training course to learn the loan document process. See our guide to becoming a signing agent for details.
How Much Can New Jersey Notaries Charge?
New Jersey sets a maximum fee of $2.50 per notarial act: one of the lowest in the country. If you charge fees, you must display a fee schedule or provide one upon request.
Can You Notarize for Family Members in New Jersey?
New Jersey prohibits notarizing documents in which you or your spouse or civil union partner are a party or have a direct beneficial interest. Notarizing for other family members is not specifically prohibited, but exercise caution and avoid any appearance of conflict.
Penalties for Notary Misconduct
- Notarizing without authority: misdemeanor
- Fraud or forgery: felony charges
- Commission revocation, the State Treasurer 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 and journal go with you
- Your employer cannot require you to skip proper procedures
How New Jersey Compares to Neighboring States
| Requirement | New Jersey | New York | Pennsylvania | Delaware |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bond | None | None | $25,000 | None |
| Exam | Yes | No | Yes | No |
| Training | Manual | No | 3 hours | No |
| Term | 5 years | 4 years | 4 years | 2 years |
| Max Fee | $2.50 | $2 | $5 | $5 |
| Journal | Required | Recommended | Recommended | Required |
| RON | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
New Jersey requires an exam and journal but no bond. Pennsylvania’s $25,000 bond is the outlier in the region. New York has the lowest fee cap at $2. Delaware has the shortest first term at 2 years. All four states permit RON.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a training course required to become a New Jersey notary?
Yes. Since P.L. 2021, c. 179, all non-attorney notary applicants must complete a 6-hour course approved by the State Treasurer.
Is there a notary exam in New Jersey?
Yes. All non-attorney notaries must pass the state exam approved by the State Treasurer after completing the training course.
Is a notary journal required in New Jersey?
Yes. Since P.L. 2021, c. 179, New Jersey notaries must maintain a journal of notarial acts.
How long does a New Jersey notary commission last?
5 years. Renew online through the NJ Notary Public Registration portal before your commission expires.
Can New Jersey notaries perform remote online notarizations?
Yes. P.L. 2021, c. 179 authorized remote and electronic notarizations in New Jersey.
Related Reading
- How to Become a Notary Signing Agent
- How to Become a Notary in New York
- How to Become a Notary in Pennsylvania
- Dual Tray Laser Printer Recommendations for Signing Agents
Updated May 2026. Requirements based on the NJ Division of Revenue and P.L. 2021, c. 179.
Responses