A notary public is someone who acts as a witness to the identity of a person who needs to get an official document signed.
Notary publics must be commissioned or licensed in their county of residence, but they have statewide jurisdiction so they can notarize within any county in their state.
Follow the steps below to become a notary in Missouri.
How to Become a Missiouri Notary Public
Step #1: Meet Initial Requirements
- Must be 18 years old
- Be a registered voter of the county within and for which the applicant is to be commissioned, or a resident alien of the U.S.
- Apply for the county in which they legally reside and be commission for this same county
- Be able to read and write the English language
- Must not have had a commission revoked during the past ten years
Step #2: Take Training Course
In Missouri, you are required to take a training course before you can be licensed as a Missouri notary.
The training course can be completed online, or written.
Step #3: Complete Missouri Notary Application
You can do this either:
- Online: To start a Missouri Notary Public Application online, create an account online at the Missouri Secretary of State’s office website and read through the application instructions.
- By Mail: Complete one of the following applications and submit via mail.
Step #4: Submit Paperwork
You can do this either:
- Online: Follow the online instructions to submit. Need help? Here’s an instruction guide.
- By Mail: Submit your Missouri Notary Public Application, proof of training course, and any other necessary documents to the Missouri Secretary of State at the address below. Be sure to include a $25 processing fee.
Jason Kander
600 West Main Street
Jefferson City, MO 65101
Processing your Missouri Notary Public Application and paperwork usually takes three to four days. If you are approved, you will receive a Certificate of Commission.
Step #5: Purchase a Missouri Notary Bond
Once your Missouri Certificate of Commission has been issued, you have 90 days to appear in person at your local county court with a $10,000 Missouri Notary Bond.
A Missouri Notary Bond is a type of surety bond that guarantees you will faithfully perform your duties as a notary public in Missouri. A Notary Bond is mandated by law.
Missouri has set the Notary Bond amount at $10,000.
The price you pay for your bond is relatively inexpensive. Generally speaking, a notary will only need to pay $50-$100 to secure their bond.
Step #6: Qualify at Your Local County Clerk
Once you purchase your Missouri Notary Bond, take it to your local county clerk’s office for approval.
Missouri Notary Public Renewal
Your term of office in Missouri lasts 4 years. At the end of this period, you may apply for a renewal.
Your renewal application must be submitted within 2 months before the expiration date.
Related Links:
Forms for New Missouri Notary Public
How to Become a Notary (Missouri Secretary of State Website)
