To become a notary in Louisiana, one must follow a specific process with eligibility requirements, applications, exams, and documentation filing.
Eligibility Requirements
- Be a Louisiana resident or legal alien.
- Be 18 years or older.
- Be proficient in English.
- Have a high school diploma or equivalent.
- Not be mentally unfit or under interdiction.
- Have no felony convictions (unless pardoned).
- Be registered to vote in the parish where the notary commission is sought.
Step-by-Step Process to Become a Notary in Louisiana
- Complete an application to qualify and pay a $35 fee.
- Register for and take the Notary Exam Pre-Assessment (online), which is mandatory but evaluative only, costing about $30.
- Register for and pass the State Notary Exam, held twice yearly (first Saturday in June and December), with a $100 fee.
- Obtain and file a $10,000 surety bond with the parish Clerk of Court (bond cost about $110).
- Execute two Oath of Office forms: file one with the parish Clerk of Court and send the other with the bond to the Secretary of State.
- After review and approval of all documents, receive the notary public commission.
Additional Information
- Notary commissions in Louisiana are lifetime appointments.
- Maintenance requires filing a bond or errors and omissions insurance policy every five years with applicable fees.
- Notary supplies such as seals, stamps, and record books are necessary to perform duties.
This outlines the general pathway and legal requirements for becoming a notary in Louisiana. If needed, education courses and study materials are recommended for exam preparation. If more specific details about forms, exact URLs, or resources for courses are desired, those can be provided as well.
