New Mexiconotary public requirements & rules
Exam requiredNew Mexico notary law basics: exam requirement, commission term, bond, and how to prepare — from the official commissioning authority.
- Written exam
- Exam required
- Administered by
- Online course/exam via National Notary Association (NNA), approved by NM Secretary of State
- Commission term
- 4 years
- Surety bond
- $10,000 surety bond (or equivalent)
- Notes
- Notary must complete NNA online training course and pass exam with 80%+ before applying; distinct from most states in requiring both training and a scored exam. Confidence medium on exam vendor detail — some sources describe it simply as an SOS-approved online course.
Some New Mexico details were ambiguous on the official site when we researched this (July 2026) — double-check specifics with the commissioning authority before you rely on them.
Preparing to be a New Mexico notary
New Mexico requires a written exam, and PrepTempo's Notary course covers the notarial concepts it tests — notarial acts, identifying signers, journals and seals, and unauthorized practice of law. Study your New Mexico statute on top of the core.
Free notary practice questions →New Mexico notary public FAQ
Does New Mexico require a notary exam?
Yes. New Mexico requires a written notary exam (Online course/exam via National Notary Association (NNA), approved by NM Secretary of State).
What are the New Mexico notary public rules for term and bond?
A New Mexico notary commission is typically 4 years. Surety bond requirement: $10,000 surety bond (or equivalent). Confirm current amounts with the official New Mexico authority.
How do I become a notary public in New Mexico?
Follow New Mexico commissioning steps: complete any required training or exam (Exam required), obtain the required bond if applicable ($10,000 surety bond (or equivalent)), and apply through the official New Mexico commissioning office. PrepTempo's Notary course covers core notarial concepts for exam and practice readiness.
Official sources
- https://www.rld.nm.gov/boards-and-commissions/individual-boards-and-commissions/real-estate-commission/licensing-registration-and-renewal/real-estate-commission-apply-for-license/
- https://www.sos.nm.gov/notary-and-apostille/notary-commissions/become-a-notary/
- https://www.sos.nm.gov/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Notary-Handbook-100223.pdf
Educational information only, researched July 2026 — not legal advice. Requirements change; confirm with the New Mexico commissioning authority. PrepTempo is not affiliated with any state authority or the National Notary Association.