10 Steps On How To Become a Notary in Arkansas
Starting as a notary public in Arkansas can be both rewarding and profitable. This comprehensive guide will provide you with all the information you need to launch your notary public career.
This includes obtaining an Arkansas notary bond and meeting other crucial requirements. Follow these steps, and you’ll be on your way to providing notary services in the Natural State!
1. Meet the Requirements for Becoming an Arkansas Notary Public
Before you can become a mobile notary in Arkansas, you’ll need to meet the following requirements for becoming an Arkansas notary public:
- Be a u.s. citizen or legal permanent resident alien
- Be a legal resident of the state of Arkansas, or a legal resident of an adjoining state and employed or operating a business in Arkansas
- Be at least 18 years old
- Have no felony convictions
- Be able to read, write and speak the English language
If you meet these requirements, you can proceed with the application process.
2. Obtain a $7,500 Arkansas Notary Bond
All Arkansas notaries require a $7,500 notary public surety bond. The state does not provide these bonds directly, but you can purchase one from various surety bond providers.
Once you have obtained the bond, you will need to submit it to the Arkansas Secretary of State’s Office. You can do this either in person or by mail.
3. Study the Notary Handbook and Take the Exam
Before you can become an Arkansas notary public and take your oath of office, you need to demonstrate your knowledge of the duties of a notary public. To do this, you’ll need to read the Notary Handbook, study Arkansas notary law, and then take and pass the Notary Public Examination.
The examination is administered by the Secretary of State’s office and consists of 25 multiple-choice questions. You will need to answer at least 21 questions correctly in order to pass.
Once you’ve passed the exam, you’ll be ready to submit your application and become an Arkansas notary public!
4. Complete the Arkansas Notary Application Process
You’ll need to fill out an application to become a notary public in Arkansas. The application will ask for your personal information, such as your name, address, and contact information. Additionally, you’ll need to answer questions about your background and qualifications.
When you purchase an Arkansas notary bond, some providers may also offer a pre-filled state application based on the information you provide. Print the completed application, sign it, and have it notarized by an in-good-standing Arkansas notaries public.
5. Submit Your Application and Pay the Filing Fee
To submit your application, you’ll need to include the following items:
- A printed and signed application
- A copy of the notary bond, with the same name as on the application
- An official signature by a notary in good standing in Arkansas
- A $20 check made payable to the Arkansas Secretary of State for the notary filing application fee
Notary applicants can send their completed application packet to:
Arkansas Secretary of State
Business and Commercial Services Division
1401 W. Capitol Avenue, Suite 250
Little Rock, AR 72201
Refer to the arkansas secretary of state website for more.
6. Complete the Notary Public Commission Certificate Process
After submitting your application, it may take up to six weeks to receive your Notary Commission Certificate. The Secretary of State will send you two oath of commission certificates with your name and county of commission listed. Review them for correctness and contact the Secretary of State’s Office immediately if there are any discrepancies.
Take both oaths of commission certificates and the original bond to your county commission’s recorder of deeds. Once the county circuit clerk records one of the certificates, return one of the completed oaths of commission certificates to the Secretary of State. Your commission will not be valid until you file the completed oath of commission with both the county recorder of deeds and the Secretary of State. Finally, receive your notary public Identification card.
7. Obtain Your Notary Seal
The state of Arkansas requires all notaries to have a notary seal but does not provide it directly. Purchase an Arkansas notary stamp that includes your name, the county you’re commissioned in, and your notary commission expiration date. Since the expiration date is required, you cannot manufacture your notary stamp until you receive your Notary Commission Certificate with the expiration date listed.
8. Purchase Errors and Omissions Insurance Policies
Errors and omissions insurance policies protect notaries from potential legal expenses resulting from mistakes or omissions made during notarial acts. While not required in Arkansas, it’s a wise investment for mobile notaries to safeguard their business.
9. Obtain Notary Journal and Arkansas Notary Supplies
Arkansas strongly recommends that all notaries maintain a notary journal to record their work. Additionally, you may need other notary supplies like an embosser, fingerprint pad, or acknowledgment forms. Several providers offer Arkansas notary supplies that meet or exceed state specifications.
10. Become a Notary Signing Agent
To expand your notary business, consider becoming a loan signing agent. Notary signing agents specialize in facilitating loan signings for real estate transactions. Many real estate agents and lenders prefer to work with notary signing agents, as they are knowledgeable about loan documents and can ensure a smooth closing process.
Market Your Mobile Notary Services
Now that you’re an Arkansas notary public with a notary bond, notary seal, and all necessary supplies, it’s time to market your mobile notarial duties. Reach out to local businesses like banks, real estate agents, and law firms that may require notary services. Additionally, create a website, business cards, and social media profiles to promote your services online.
By following these steps and meeting the requirements to become an Arkansas notary public, you’ll be well on your way to launching a successful mobile notary business in the state. Good luck, and happy notarizing!