How to Become a Notary Public in Missouri

In Missouri, you must complete the licensing process to become a commissioned notary public according to Missouri Revised Statutes Chapter 486. Notary publics serve as an impartial witness in the signing of legal documents such as wills, property deeds, marriage licenses and adoption papers.

How Do I Become a Notary Public in Missouri?

To become a notary public in Missouri, follow these eight steps.

Step 1: Verify you meet basic eligibility requirements

You must meet the following requirements set in place by the Secretary of State to be eligible for a notary public license in Missouri:

Be at least 18 years old
Reside or work regularly in Missouri
Be a citizen or legal resident of the United States
Not have had your commission revoked in the past five years
Have a clear criminal history for the past 5 years

Step 2: Read the Missouri Notary Public Handbook

The Missouri Notary Public Handbook contains general information on your role as a notary, state statutes and important forms. Use the handbook as a guide for your notary duties and FAQs throughout the application process.

Step 3: Take the online or written training course

Log in to your notary public account on the SOS website and access the notary training course. Either complete the course online or print and fill out the written course.

If you choose the written option, submit the course form with your application.

Step 4: Apply online or by mail

You can apply for your Missouri notary public license by mail or online through the Secretary of State website. Submit the following materials:

Completed Application for Commission as a Notary Public form
$25 application fee
Training course completion certificate

Step 5: Purchase your $10,000 surety bond and E&O coverage

The Missouri Secretary of State requires all notary publics to file a $10,000 surety bond within 60 days of approval to ensure ethical notary business practice according to state law.

You may wish to purchase optional errors and omissions (E&O) coverage to protect yourself from legal damages due to common notarization errors such as missing seals, dates or signatures. Buy your $10,000 Missouri notary bond with $10,000 E&O coverage for just $50.

Step 6: Qualify at your local county clerk's office

Within 60 days, take the surety bond form to your local county clerk's office to get your oath of office and commission certificate. Sign your name on the oath exactly as it is listed on the certificate.

Step 7: Submit your oath of office and notary bond

Mail the oath and bond to the Secretary of State’s Office within seven days of signing. Use the following address:

Secretary of State Commissions

PO Box 784

Jefferson City, MO 65102-0784

Step 8: Purchase supplies

Finally, you’ll need to purchase a notary seal and journal through a Secretary of State approved manufacturer. For specific seal and journal requirements, refer to the handbook.

How to Renew Your Missouri Notary Public License

Missouri notary public licenses expire after four years. To renew your commission, apply to the Secretary of State no earlier than six weeks before your current commission expires. You will not be automatically reappointed.

The application process is the same as the initial application procedures. You must file a new $10,000 surety bond and submit a $25 application fee.

How Much Does It Cost to Get a Notary Public License in Missouri?

The cost of becoming a Missouri notary public is typically around $150–$200 in total. You can expect the following expenses:

Application fee: $25
Surety bond: $50–$90*
Supplies: Varies, typically $40–$70

Exact pricing will vary depending on the surety bond and notary supply vendors you chose.

*This estimate reflects SuretyBonds.com notary bond rates.

How to Become an Electronic Notary in Missouri

Once you are commissioned, you can register as an electronic notary, also known as a remote online notary, through the Secretary of State.

To become a remote online notary, log in to your Secretary of State account and do the following:

Complete the online registration form
Pass the online training course
Select an approved notary software vendor

Refer to the SOS Electronic Notary Information page and Missouri Notary Public Handbook for more expectations, regulations and information.

How to Become a Missouri Notary Public as a Non-Resident

For non-residents, additional requirements include the following:

Work in Missouri
Use the notary seal in the course of your employment in Missouri
Have a work address in the county for which you are applying for commission
Read and write in the English language

If you move to Missouri and your current commission is non-resident, you will be immediately appointed as a notary upon becoming a resident. To be issued another commission, you must return and request to cancel your non-resident commission and reapply as a resident.

If you qualify as a permanent resident alien according to Section 245 of the Immigration and Nationality Act, you must submit a copy of your “green card” with your application.

How Long Does It Take to Get a Notary Public License?

It typically takes about two weeks for your Missouri notary public application to be processed and approved. You must be sworn in by the County Clerk’s Office within 60 days of receiving your confirmation letter to be officially commissioned.

How to Get a Notary Public License in Missouri