Notaries are public officials who authenticate and witness the signing of important documents, administer oaths, and take affidavits to prevent fraud and ensure the validity of legal documents.
Median income:
$54,784 annually or $19.49 per hour.
Lifestyle:
Notary publics often work independently, either from their own office or by traveling to clients’ locations, and they typically set their own schedules- allowing them to work part-time or full-time based on their preferences and client needs.
Exciting Parts of the Job
Knowing that you’re providing an important need for individuals in different situations
Having the freedom to manage your own schedule and work independently
Being entrusted with the responsibility of authenticating important documents
Challenging Parts of the Job
Managing clients who might expect services beyond the scope of what a notary can legally provide
Dealing with an unpredictable workload, as quiet periods can be followed by busier times quickly
Ensuring compliance with state-specific regulations and understanding changes in notarial laws
Education requirements:
A high school diploma is required but many states require notaries to complete a training course or pass an exam covering notarial laws and procedures.
This is perfect for you if:
You want to have a side hustle
You have a meticulous attention to detail
You possess a high level of integrity
You are a good communicator
If that sounds like you, definitely watch our interview with Sara Navarro to learn more about being a notary here!
Day in the Life
Schedule:
Notaries typically have a flexible schedule, often setting their own hours and working part-time or full-time. They may also offer services outside regular business hours, including evenings and weekends, depending on client demand.
Setting:
Offices, clients’ locations, or public spaces like banks and libraries.
Tasks:
Verifying signer identity, witnessing and authenticating signatures, certifying copies of documents, and recording notarial acts in a notary journal.
Topics:
Notarial laws and regulations, document handling, and any new technologies or methods relevant to their field.
Skills:
Notaries possess strong knowledge of legal requirements, attention to detail, and excellent organizational skills for maintaining records of notarial acts.
Tools:
Laptops for organizing and tracking documents, notary stamps or seals, a notary journal, and identification verification tools.
Common Characteristics
Natural Talents (strengths):
Notaries are naturally good at attention to detail, managing paperwork accurately, and maintaining professionalism in client interactions. They are also adept at problem-solving and handling sensitive information with discretion.
Interests:
Doing structured tasks, following established procedures, working with details, and solving problems related to document authentication.
Personality:
Notaries typically have conventional and investigative personality types. They are highly organized and analytical.
Values:
Accuracy, integrity, professionalism, trustworthiness, and independence.
*Terms used to describe interests and personality are based on the Holland Framework.
How to Become a Notary
Education requirements:
A high school diploma is required, but many states also require completion of a notary training course, which covers notarial laws, procedures, and ethics. Additionally, applying to the state includes a background check and proof of completion of the required training.
Preferred majors:
While a college degree is not a strict requirement, pursuing majors in legal studies, business administration, criminal justice, or a related field can be beneficial.
Specialties and Similar Career Paths
Paralegal
Legal Secretary
Title Agent
Escrow Officer
Advice from Sara
Job hunt tips to set yourself apart:
It’s important to research state requirements first, as they vary by state. Then, complete the necessary training and apply for certification. Connect with local notaries or join professional organizations to gain referrals.
Fastest way to get your foot in the door:
Choose a state-approved online training course to save time and get started right away. Apply for certification, network with other notaries, and start offering your services.
Recommended resources:
Check the National Notary Association (NNA) for training, certification, and educational resources online. Search your state notary commission websites to know the requirements and complete notary training courses — there are online and in-person courses.
What Sara would tell her younger self if she was just getting started:
“It’s important to know what specific things you want to do, but always let your heart know what you are going to do.”
