What does a Notary do?

Notaries are public officials who are appointed by state governments to serve as witnesses for individuals who sign important legal documents such as contracts, real estate leases and affidavits. They verify the identities of document signers to ensure they are who they claim to be.

When a person signs a legal document, a Notary must officially attest that they verified the signer’s identity and the individual was not coerced or forced into signing. In some cases, a Notary Public must administer oaths and affirmations during the document signing process. Notaries work as independent contractors and in legal firms, financial institutions and real estate firms. 

Notary skills and qualifications 

Notaries must meet several state qualifications in order to legally work and provide Notary services in their states. They work in many settings, ranging from government offices and legal firms to financial institutions and home offices. Notaries must possess the ability to be fair, honest and impartial when dealing with the public. A Notary should have the following skills and qualifications to successfully excel in their position:

• Strong communication skills

• Problem-solving skills

• Ability to work well with others

• Strong reading comprehension skills

• Ability to be flexible when scheduling notarizing appointments with clients

• Ability to exhibit empathy when working with sensitive documents and vulnerable clients

Notary experience requirements

Individuals seeking Notary careers must be at least 18 years old and provide a valid form of photo I.D. They must also be legal residents of the state in which they reside, and all Notaries are required to pass background checks. Depending on the specific organization a Notary provides services for, past experience with notarizing legal documents, contracts and affidavits may also be required. 

Notary education and training requirements

Notaries must complete a state-approved Notary course and pass a written Notary exam before they can begin their official Notary careers. All Notaries must also apply for and obtain a Notary license in their home states. They are required to file an oath of office and bond in the counties in which they plan to open a storefront business or provide mobile Notary services. A typical Notary term is valid for four years, after which Notaries may need to pass a renewal exam to continuing providing services. 

While not required, some clients may also prefer that the Notaries they work with are members of the Notary Association of America (NAA). The association provides members with continuing education courses and resources to help new Notaries excel in their careers. 

Notary salary expectations

According to Indeed Salaries, the average salary for a Notary is $40,136 per year. However, specific salary rates may be higher or lower than the average, due to factors such as a Notary’s overall experience, geographical location and company preferences. Pay rates may also vary if the Notary works part-time as an independent contractor or full-time at a legal firm, insurance company or other organization. 

Job description samples for similar positions

If this Notary Public job description doesn’t match the criteria of your position, here are additional job descriptions for similar positions:

• Legal Assistant

• Document Controller

Notary job description FAQs 

What should you look for on a Notary resume?

A few things to look for on a Notary resume include excellent multitasking and communication skills. It’s also important to look at an applicant’s previous experience. Notary experience may include working with legal documents, affidavits and contracts.

Who do Notaries report to?

Some Notaries work independently and don’t report to employers or supervisors, but they do report to the clients who receive their notarizing services. A Notary who works for a law office may report to their direct supervisor or the head attorney at the firm. A Notary who is employed by a bank or real estate firm would also report to their direct supervisor. 

What qualities make a good Notary?

Good Notaries are detail-oriented, and they possess excellent communication skills. Since Notary transactions often revolve around legal matters, being empathetic and having the ability to stay calm under pressure are also beneficial qualities.