Becoming a Massachusetts Notary Public

NOTICE: We are not the commissioning authority of notaries public. The Governor, with the advice and consent of the Governor's Council, appoints individuals to the Office of Notary Public in Massachusetts. This network provides information for notaries public and refers service requests to members who provide notarial services.

How to Become a Notary Public in Massachusetts
Becoming a Notary Public in Massachusetts is a straightforward process, but it does require specific qualifications, endorsements, and an oath of office. Below is a clear overview of the requirements, responsibilities, and steps involved.

Application Requirements
To apply for a Massachusetts Notary Public commission, you must:

Complete the official notary application.
Obtain four character references from individuals who know you personally.
- One reference must be a Massachusetts attorney in good standing.
Read and agree to comply with Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 222, as amended by Chapter 289 of the Acts of 2016.
Submit the application for review and approval.
Once approved, you will receive an appointment letter by mail informing you of your appointment.
You may either go to the Secretary of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts’ Office to take the Oath, pay the $60 filing fee, and receive your Commission Certificate. Or you may send in your payment and receive your Commission Certificate by mail, along with information on where to go to take the Qualifying Oaths of Office before two Commissioners.

Authorized Notarial Acts in Massachusetts
Massachusetts Notaries Public are authorized to perform the following acts:

Acknowledgments
Jurats
Oaths & Affirmations
Copy Certifications
Signature Witnessings
Issuing Summonses for Witnesses
Issuing Subpoenas
Witnessing the Opening of a Safe Deposit Box, Vault, or Safe

Who Is Eligible to Become a Notary?
You may qualify for a Massachusetts notary commission if you:

Are 18 years of age or older
Live or regularly conduct business in Massachusetts
Have no felony convictions
Have no misdemeanor convictions resulting in imprisonment
Have no misdemeanor convictions involving probation or fines
Have no OUI/DUI convictions
Have no criminal convictions of any kind (per application standards)
Have not had a professional license or commission revoked, suspended, restricted, or denied in any state
Have no civil findings of liability involving fraud, deceit, or misrepresentation

Where Can a Massachusetts Notary Practice?
Your commission is valid anywhere within the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.

Who Can You Notarize For?
You may notarize for any member of the public who:

Makes a reasonable request
Presents valid proof of identity
Is physically present before you
Meets all legal requirements for the specific notarial act

Training Requirements
Massachusetts does not require:

Notary training
Exams
Courses

However, understanding Chapter 222 and best practices is essential for professional and compliant service.

Bond & Insurance

Massachusetts does not require a surety bond.
Errors & Omissions (E&O) Insurance is optional but strongly recommended to protect yourself from liability.

Upfront Costs

$60 application filing fee
Cost of notary supplies (varies by vendor):
- Notary seal stamp or embosser
- Seal impression inker (if using an embosser)
- Notary journal
Optional E&O insurance

Required Equipment - Notary Seal Stamp or Embosser

Your seal must include:

Your name
“Notary Public”
“Commonwealth of Massachusetts”
Commission expiration date
The Great Seal of the Commonwealth

Important:
Black ink is required

Notary Records Journal
A paper journal or e-Journal (electronic) is required for most notaries and is strongly recommended for your protection. Entries must be kept in chronological order and should document every notarial act.

Business Cards & Marketing Materials
These are optional. If you are a notary for your employer, check with your company before creating marketing materials. Remember: You are in control of your notary public equipment and commission. Not your employer.

Sample of a business card

Legal Risk
Notaries carry legal responsibility. Mistakes can lead to civil liability, which is why E&O insurance is recommended. Risk varies depending on the type of work you perform and your adherence to proper procedures. As public officials, certain immunities exist but you're not immune from negligent or intentional acts.

Commission Term
A Massachusetts notary commission is valid for seven (7) years. The Secretary of the Commonwealth will send a renewal notice approximately five weeks before your expiration date.