Ohio Notary BCI Background Check and Fingerprinting

The Secretary of State requires a BCI report with initial commission and renewal applications. Ohio attorneys are exempt. Qualifying Ohio peace officers upload their OPOTA certification instead of a BCI report.

Do not assume a check prepared for employment or another credential satisfies the notary application. The stated reason code and timing matter.

Visit an authorized Bureau of Criminal Identification and Investigation agent, complete the required form and fingerprint impression process, and state reason code 147.022. Ask how the completed report will be delivered so you can upload it.

Verify the legal name and identifying information before submission. Retain the receipt or transaction information until the commission is approved.

The report must be issued within six months of the application or renewal. If it becomes too old before filing, the Secretary of State may require a newer report.

Ohio recommends completing the BCI check before paying nonrefundable provider fees so the applicant can identify a potentially disqualifying record before investing in education and testing.

Ohio law bars applicants with specified disqualifying outcomes under R.C. 9.79 and people whose Ohio notary commission was previously revoked. The Secretary of State—not a fingerprint vendor or course provider—decides eligibility.

Follow official instructions if a record is inaccurate or requires explanation. Do not conceal information or upload a report prepared for the wrong purpose.