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Step-by-Step Guide to Becoming a Notary Public in Louisiana

Becoming a notary public in Louisiana involves several steps, including meeting eligibility requirements, completing education, passing an exam, and submitting an application. Below is a detailed guide with relevant links.

Eligibility Requirements

To become a notary in Louisiana, you must:
- Be at least 18 years old.
- Be a resident citizen or an alien lawfully residing in Louisiana.
- Be registered to vote in the parish where you want to be commissioned.
- Be able to read, write, and speak English.
- Not have been convicted of a felony or, if convicted, have received a pardon.

Note: The Secretary of State will check your criminal background as part of the application process.

Complete the Required Education

Louisiana requires aspiring notaries to complete an education course. The required study material is the "Fundamentals of Louisiana Notarial Law and Practice" guide, also known as the "blue book."

Link to Purchase Study Guide:


You can also take courses through approved providers:

Register for the Notary Exam

The notary exam in Louisiana is known for being difficult. You must register for the exam through the Secretary of State's office. The exam is given twice a year, and registration typically opens a few months before each exam date.

Link to Register for the Exam:

Pass the Notary Exam

The exam is administered by the Louisiana Secretary of State and is based on the information in the "blue book." It is a comprehensive, open-book exam that covers various topics related to notarial law and practice in Louisiana.
 

Additional Resources:

Submit Your Notary Application

After passing the exam, you must complete the application to become a commissioned notary public. The application requires detailed information about your background, education, and exam results.

Link to Application Forms:
[Notary Public Application Forms] (https://www.sos.la.gov/NotaryAndCertifications/NotaryApplication/Pages/default.aspx)

Obtain Your Commission

Once your application is approved, you will receive your notary commission from the Louisiana Secretary of State. You are now officially a notary public.

Commissioning Process:

  • You will need to take an oath of office and file a bond or insurance policy as required by state law.

  • The oath of office is typically administered by the Clerk of Court in your parish.


Link to Oath and Bond Requirements:
[Notary Bond and Insurance Information] (https://www.sos.la.gov/NotaryAndCertifications/NotaryBondAndInsurance/Pages/default.aspx)

Purchase Notary Supplies

To perform notarial acts, you will need supplies such as a notary seal and a record book (notary journal). These can be purchased from various suppliers, but they must meet Louisiana state requirements.

Required Supplies:

  • Notary Seal: Must include your name, the words “Notary Public,” and the state of Louisiana.

  • Notary Journal: Used to record all notarial acts.

Maintain Your Notary Commission

As a Louisiana notary, you must keep your commission current by renewing it as required by the state. You must also maintain a surety bond or insurance policy throughout your commission.

Link to Renewal Information:
- [Renewal and Maintenance](https://www.sos.la.gov/NotaryAndCertifications/NotaryRenewal/Pages/default.aspx)

Important Links:

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