Does Rhode Island require a notary exam?

Yes. Rhode Island requires a written notary exam (Rhode Island Secretary of State (Notary Knowledge Assessment)).

Rhode Island notary public

Exam required

What it takes to become a notary public in Rhode Island, from the state's official commissioning authority.

Written exam: Exam required
Administered by: Rhode Island Secretary of State (Notary Knowledge Assessment)
Commission term: 4 years
Surety bond: none
Notes: Must score at least 80% on the Notary Knowledge Assessment. No bond required.

Preparing to be a Rhode Island notary

Rhode Island 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 Rhode Island statute on top of the core.

Start the Notary course →

Official sources

https://www.pearsonvue.com/content/dam/VUE/vue/en/documents/publications/094000.pdf
https://www.pearsonvue.com/us/en/ri/realestate.html
https://www.sos.ri.gov/Divisions/NotaryPublic

← All states

Educational information only, researched July 2026 — not legal advice. Requirements change; confirm with the Rhode Island commissioning authority. PrepTempo is not affiliated with any state authority or the National Notary Association.