New York notary public
Exam requiredWhat it takes to become a notary public in New York, from the state's official commissioning authority.
- Written exam
- Exam required
- Administered by
- New York Department of State (state-administered written exam, not outsourced to PSI/Pearson)
- Commission term
- 4 years
- Surety bond
- none
- Notes
- No state-mandated bond, though many NY notaries voluntarily carry E&O/bond coverage; some employers require one. 60-minute, 40-question multiple-choice written exam, $15 fee; 70% (28/40) passing. NY is one of the few states requiring a notary exam. Attorneys admitted to NY bar are exempt from the exam. Commissioned/recorded through county clerk of residence.
Some New York 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 York notary
New York 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 York statute on top of the core.
Start the Notary course →Official sources
Educational information only, researched July 2026 — not legal advice. Requirements change; confirm with the New York commissioning authority. PrepTempo is not affiliated with any state authority or the National Notary Association.