Become a New Ohio Notary Public

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Would you like to become a traditional notary in Ohio? We have everything you need to get there. Follow these 5 easy steps.

Are you an attorney? Click here to learn about the attorney notary application process.

	1. Get a background check Obtain a BCI background check. For your convenience, the CBA offers BCI Background Check services (for a fee of $35) to the general public by appointment and before all of our in-person notary classes for class attendees at our office in Columbus, OH. Find out more here.
	2. Take the notary class and test Within 6 months of completing your background check, you must successfully complete a 3-hour notary class and pass the accompanying test. The class and test are available in person at the Columbus Bar Association in Columbus, OH and online beginning in January 2020. The fee for the class and test is $130 paid directly to the CBA. Upcoming Classes at the CBA: Click the links below to register for a class online: Saturday, October 26, 2019 • 9:00am-1:00pm Saturday, November 9, 2019 • 9:00am-1:00pm Saturday, November 16, 2019 • 9:00am-1:00pm Saturday, December 7, 2019 • 9:00am-1:00pm Saturday, December 14, 2019 • 9:00am-1:00pm
	3. Complete the Secretary of State's application Complete and submit a New Notary Application electronically to the Secretary of State’s office. That application must include your name, residential address, date of birth, BCI background check, signature and evidence that you have successfully completed a 3-hour education course and passed the accompanying test through an authorized education and testing provider. A $15 application fee must be paid directly to the Secretary of State with a credit or debit card when the application is submitted.
	4. Receive your commission in the mail The Secretary of State will process your completed application and, if approved, it will issue your commission directly to you after you have affirmed your compliance with the rules. Your commission will expire 5 years from the date it was issued and your commission information will be posted on a public searchable database on the Secretary of State's website.
	5. Order your notary stamp and supplies The Columbus Bar Association has all the notary supplies you need, from stamps and embossers to nameplates and ink. Click here to order your notary supplies.

Still have questions? Please contact us at notary@cbalaw.org or (614) 340-2031.