How to Become a Notary - American Assoc. Notaries

Your One-Stop Shop to Become a Notary in Louisiana

The American Association of Notaries offers a simple step-by-step guide to become a Louisiana notary. With our help, becoming a Louisiana notary is easy and hassle-free.

To become a notary in Louisiana, you must:

1- Be 18 years of age or older.
2- Be a resident citizen or alien of Louisiana.
3- Be registered to vote in the parish in which you seek commission.
4- Not have been convicted of a felony and not been pardoned.
5- Be able to read, write, speak and be sufficiently knowledgeable of the English language.
6- Hold a high school diploma, a diploma for completion of a home study program approved by the State Board of Elementary and Secondary Education or a high school equivalency diploma issued after successfully completing the test of General Educational Development.

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Steps to Become a Notary in Louisiana

To become a notary public in Louisiana, make sure you meet the eligibility requirements listed above, then complete the following steps:

Step 1- Complete an Application to Qualify.

You may complete the Application to Qualify for a Notary Public Commission either online or by mail. A $35 qualifying fee applies.

Step 2- Register to Take the Notary Exam Pre-Assessment.

Once the Application to Qualify is approved, you will receive notification to register online for the mandatory Notary Exam Pre-Assessment. A $30 test fee applies.

Step 3- Register to Take the State Notary Exam.

Once you receive a score on the Notary Exam Pre-Assessment, you may register online to take the state notary exam. The deadline to complete the Application to Qualify, Notary Exam Pre-Assessment, and Examination Registration is 30 days prior to the exam. A $100 registration fee applies.

Step 4- Order a Five-year, $50,000 Louisiana Notary Bond.

Louisiana notaries are required to maintain a $50,000 Louisiana notary bond that is valid for five years. The cost of our notary bond is $110, and it is available for immediate download upon checkout. Click here to order your notary bond.

Step 5- Send Documents to the Louisiana Secretary of State.

Send your original notary bond, oath of office, and official signature page, along with the $35 commission fee, to the Louisiana Secretary of State for filing. Visit the Louisiana Secretary of State’s website for more information on how to complete this step.

Step 6- File a Duplicate Oath of Office with the Parish Clerk of Court.

The duplicate Oath of Office must be filed within one month after the oath is administered. In Orleans Parish, file it with the Clerk of Civil District Court. Read La. R.S. 42:162 for more information.

Step 7- Order a Louisiana Notary Stamp

A Louisiana notary stamp is not required by law; however, most notaries choose to purchase one to authenticate the notarial acts they perform. Click here to order your notary stamp.