Becoming a notary can provide additional income and is relatively easy to obtain. This blog post walks through the different steps, qualification requirements, everything you need to know about becoming an Arkansas notary. By equipping yourself with this knowledge, you will be on your way to success in obtaining the necessary qualifications and securing this optional certification. Read further for all of the details!
Everything You Need to Know about Becoming an Arkansas Notary: Understanding the requirements
In order to be eligible for the position of a notary public in Arkansas, you must meet certain guidelines. These requirements include being at least 18 years old, and an inhabitant of the state. You must also have no felony convictions or judgments against your name. Additionally, you must successfully complete a 6-hour approved course and submit a completed application to the Secretary of State. You must then take and pass an examination, as well as pay all applicable fees for the commission. Once you have met these requirements, your notary public commission will be valid for a of four years from the date it was issued.
It is important to note that only Arkansas residents may become notaries. Additionally, you must keep your commission current and active by renewing it every four years to maintain the validity of the document. As a notary public, you must also ensure that you abide by all applicable laws governing Notarial Acts in Arkansas.
Prepare the documents to apply for a notary public commission
Applicants must also submit two affidavits of citizenship, two character references, and one passport-style photograph with their application. The affidavit of citizenship is a sworn statement that states the applicant is a United States citizen or has been granted lawful permanent residence in the US and has resided in Arkansas for at least six months prior to filing the application. Character references may be included in the application packet, or applicants may have these forms completed notarized. The passport-style photograph should measure two inches by two inches and must be taken within the last three months. It is important that the photo clearly shows all facial features of the applicant.
Take the necessary training and exams to become a notary
In Arkansas, becoming a notary is relatively straightforward. To become a notary in the state, you must take an approved six-hour course and pass a written exam administered by the Arkansas Secretary of State’s Office. Once you have successfully completed your training and passed your exams, you will be granted commission by the Secretary of State to serve as a notary in the state. The commission must be renewed every four years, and can be extended twice with additional training courses.
After you have been commissioned, you will need to purchase a Notary Seal and Bond, as well as other supplies required for proper notarization procedures. You will also need to maintain records of all your notarizations and perform other duties consistent with the laws of Arkansas. Once you have all the necessary materials, you can begin performing notarizations in accordance with the state regulations.
Complete your application, submit your paperwork and pay any fees required
Once you have submitted your application to become a notary in Arkansas, you need to take the next step and pay any fees required. Fees can vary depending on whether it is a new or renewal application as well as other factors. Make sure to check with the local county clerk’s office for exact fees, as these may change from time to time.
Additionally, you may be required to purchase a notary bond prior to the completion of your application. This bond is meant to protect any document signers from any potential damages caused by wrongful acts committed while serving as a public notary. Once all fees have been paid and you have acquired the proper bond, you will then need to submit your documents and materials to the state. Once all information has been processed, you will be notified by mail of your certification as a notary in Arkansas.
Attend an oath of office ceremony and return your signed oath to the Secretary of State
After attending an oath of office ceremony, the notary must return the signed oath to the Arkansas Secretary of State within 30 days. The oath should be mailed or hand-delivered with a copy of your commission certificate. Include a check made payable to “The Secretary of State” in the amount specified by the office.
When mailing, send the oath to:
Arkansas Secretary of State
1401 West Capitol Avenue, Suite 250
Little Rock, AR 72201-2902
To hand-deliver the oath and commission certificate, you may do so at the above address between the hours of 8am and 4:30pm. The office is closed on weekends and state holidays.
It is important that the oath be signed properly, including your signature and seal. All information must be legible. Your commission certificate should be signed by both the notary and the Secretary of State with all signatures legible.
Once the office has received and processed your application, you will receive a Commissions Certificate. This certificate serves as proof that you are an official notary public in Arkansas and is valid for five years. If you have any questions regarding the application process, please contact the Secretary of State at 501-682-1010 or email them at [email protected] for additional assistance.
Renew your commission every four years by completing continuing education credit hours
In Arkansas, notaries public must renew their commission every four years. To be eligible for renewal, they must complete continuing education credit hours according to the requirements established by the Arkansas Secretary of State’s office. Notary applicants should consult the Arkansas Secretary of State website for detailed information about the required number and type of credit hours needed for renewal.
Credit hours can be obtained through courses offered by schools, universities, or professional organizations approved by the Arkansas Secretary of State. Once enough continuing education credit hours have been completed, applicants must submit their commission renewal application to the Arkansas Secretary of State’s office for review and approval. After their application is approved, notaries public in Arkansas will receive a new commission certificate that is valid for another four year period. Renewing your commission as a notary in Arkansas every four years is an important part of maintaining professional standards and legitimacy in the industry.
Now that you know all of the steps and qualifications required, you’re ready to start your journey as a potential notary. Whether you choose to pursue this added certification is completely up to you – but don’t be afraid to venture out into unexplored territories. Who knows, becoming a notary may lead you down paths more grand than what meets the eye. If nothing else, becoming a notary opens up additional opportunities and could offer a great source of income.