How to become a notary in Arizona
So you want to be a notary public in the great state of Arizona? This article should help guide you along the process of becoming a notary in the “Grand Canyon State.” To be eligible to become a notary public in Arizona you must be a resident of the state, be at least 18 years of age and must not have been convicted of a felon unless your rights have been restored. You do not have to be a US citizen to be a notary in Arizona, but you must claim Arizona as your primary residence on all tax forms.
If you meet the eligibility requirements, the process to become a notary is fairly simple. First the Secretary of State’s office asks that you read the Arizona Notary Handbook, which describes how to perform notary acts in Arizona. Then an application form needs to be filled out and sent to the Secretary of State’s office. The application form can easily be found on the Secretary of State’s website under Business Services. A $25 application fee must be sent in check or money order form along with the completed application. Make the check out to Secretary of State.
A $5000 notary bond must also be purchased. If this is purchased beforehand it can be sent along with the application. Otherwise it can be sent later. Either way an $18 fee must be sent with the original bond to the Secretary of State’s office. Make this check out to Clerk of the Superior Court.
Once this is all completed you are well on your way to becoming a notary public. The processing often takes up to six weeks, so you may have to wait a while. Once you receive your notary commission you must purchase a stamp as well as a notary journal. Then you can start notarizing!
If you still have questions you can visit the Secretary of State’s website. The state also offers free workshops which help to describe the role of a notary public as well as the process of becoming one. Good luck!