Step-by-Step Guide to Becoming a Notary Public in Arkansas
Meet the Eligibility Requirements
To become a notary in Arkansas, you must meet the following eligibility requirements:
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Be at least 18 years old.
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Be a legal resident of Arkansas or a legal resident of an adjoining state and employed in Arkansas.
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Be a U.S. citizen or a permanent legal resident.
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Be able to read and write English.
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Have not had a notary commission revoked in the past ten years.
Complete the Notary Public Application
You need to fill out the Arkansas Notary Public Application. The application can be found on the Arkansas Secretary of State's website.
Here is the link to the application form:
[Arkansas Notary Public Application] (https://www.sos.arkansas.gov/uploads/bcs/np_appl_instr.pdf)
Obtain a $7,500 Surety Bond
Before submitting your application, you must obtain a $7,500 surety bond. This bond can be obtained from a bonding company or insurance agency authorized to do business in Arkansas. The bond ensures that you will perform your duties as a notary public honestly and faithfully.
Complete the Notary Training Course (if required)
As of my knowledge cutoff in 2023, Arkansas does not require a notary training course. However, it's recommended to check the current requirements on the Secretary of State's website to ensure no changes have been made.
Submit the Application and Bond
Submit your completed application and the original $7,500 surety bond to the Arkansas Secretary of State's office. You can mail the documents to:
Arkansas Secretary of State
Business and Commercial Services Division
1401 W. Capitol Avenue, Suite 250
Little Rock, AR 72201
Pay the Application Fee
There is a $20 non-refundable application fee. You can pay this fee by check or money order made payable to the Arkansas Secretary of State. Some online submission options may also be available for payment.
Purchase a Notary Seal and Journal
Once your application is approved, you will need to purchase an official notary seal and a notary journal. The seal must include:
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Your name as it appears on your commission.
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The words "Notary Public."
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The words "Arkansas."
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The county where you are commissioned.
Take the Oath of Office
After receiving your commission certificate, you must take an oath of office. This oath is administered by the circuit clerk in the county where you reside or are employed. You must also file your bond with the circuit clerk's office.
Begin Performing Notarial Acts
Once you have taken the oath and filed your bond, you are officially a notary public in Arkansas and can begin performing notarial acts.
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Helpful Links
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[Arkansas Secretary of State - Notary Public Information](https://www.sos.arkansas.gov/notary-public)
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[Arkansas Notary Public Application Instructions](https://www.sos.arkansas.gov/uploads/bcs/np_appl_instr.pdf)
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[Notary Public Application Form](https://www.sos.arkansas.gov/uploads/bcs/np_appl.pdf)
Make sure to check the Arkansas Secretary of State's website for any updates or changes to the notary application process.