Application and oath
New York Notary Application and Requirements (2026)
Most New York applicants pass the written examination first, complete an oath of office, and then apply online through New York Business Express with the pass notice and $60 nonrefundable fee.
Reviewed August 2026. Always confirm current instructions with the official agencies linked below.
Residence or office
New York required
Application fee
$60
Oath
Required
Bond
Not required
Who qualifies for a New York commission
An applicant must reside in New York or maintain an office or place of business in New York and satisfy the state’s competency and character requirements. A qualifying nonresident relies on the New York business connection stated in the application.
Most applicants must pass the state examination. Attorneys currently admitted in New York and qualifying Unified Court System court clerks are exempt from the exam, but not automatically exempt from the application fee.
Prepare these items before applying
The May 2026 application guidance directs applicants to have a personal NY.gov account, a valid passing result or exemption, and a completed oath before starting.
- Copy, scan, or photo of the passing exam slip when required
- Completed oath of office scanned as a PDF—not a photo
- Personal email and NY.gov credentials
- New York residence or qualifying business-address information
- Social Security or taxpayer identification information, or the requested written explanation
- $60 online payment by an accepted credit or debit card
Submit through New York Business Express
Search for the Notary Public Commission application, sign in with the applicant’s own account, upload the required files, answer every question consistently, and pay the fee. Do not also mail duplicate papers unless the Department specifically requests them.
Use the dashboard to monitor status and respond to deficiency notices. Save the submission confirmation and copies of every uploaded document.
Oath and county commission record
Complete the oath each time you apply for a new commission or reappointment. After issuance, the Department of State transmits commission and signature information to the appropriate county clerk so the official signature can be authenticated.
A passing exam, uploaded oath, or pending application does not authorize notarization. Wait until the commission is issued.
No New York surety-bond requirement
New York does not require an ordinary Notary Public surety bond. Do not purchase a bond because a checklist for another state says one is mandatory.
Optional errors-and-omissions insurance is a separate business decision and does not replace compliance with the law, journal duties, identity rules, or fee limits.
Frequently asked questions
How much is the New York notary application?
The Department of State lists a $60 nonrefundable initial-application fee.
Is a surety bond required?
No surety bond is required for an ordinary New York Notary Public commission.
Who is exempt from the exam?
New York attorneys and qualifying Unified Court System court clerks are exempt under the Department’s stated rules.
Should I mail documents after applying online?
No, unless the Department specifically requests additional material.
Official sources
Continue preparing
Practice the rules in exam-style scenarios and explore the rest of the New York commissioning process.
Start the New York practice test