Can You Be a Notary in Multiple States?

author of post avatar

OneNotary Team

July 24, 2021

Notarization process

Are you thinking about switching careers? Are you looking for a way to make some extra money? If so, then you might be thinking about becoming a notary public. A notary public is someone who was responsible for making sure people understand the document they sign, do not commit fraud and are entering into an agreement of their own free will. At the same time, you might be wondering if you can become a notary public in more than one state. Is this allowed? What are a few important points you should keep in mind? Learn more about the process to become a notary in multiple states.

How To Become a Notary Public

If you are interested in becoming a notary public in multiple states, the first thing you need to do is become a notary public in one state. Usually, people decide to become a notary public in the state in which they live. A few steps you need to follow in order to become a notary public include:

  1. First, you must make sure you have met all of the qualifications in your state. The qualifications can vary slightly from state to state.
  2. Next, you have to complete the application for your state. You will also have to pay a filing for your associate it with the application.
  3. In some locations, you may have to take a few educational classes before you can become a notary public. You might also have to pass an exam that is administered by the state.
  4. In a lot of states, you will also have to complete a fingerprinting process. You might also have to pass a background check before you can become a notary public.
  5. Finally, you will receive your notary commission from the state and file all relevant commission paperwork. After this, you should be able to start working as a notary public.

After you have gone through this process in one state, you may be thinking about transferring your work to another state. What do you need to know about this process?

Notarizing Documents from Out of State

document signature

Can a notary notarize a document from another state? After you have received your commission, you are only authorized to notarize documents within the jurisdiction that has been set by your state. Usually, this means you are allowed to notarize documents as long as you are in your own State. On the other hand, someone may come to you with a document that comes from another state. Are you allowed to notarize documents from out of state?

In most cases, you will be allowed to notarize documents that are being sent or recorded across state borders. Of course, you need to make sure you are notarizing documents within your own jurisdiction. It doesn’t necessarily matter where the documents are going to be recorded; however, you do need to make sure you follow the laws of your state. This includes documents coming from another state for specific real estate transactions.

At the same time, some states are different. You need to check the rules of your stay carefully to make sure you are allowed to notarize documents from other states. Always follow the regulations put in place by your commission.

Can I Transfer my Notary to Another State?

Can a notary notarize in another state? It is unusual for a notary to transfer his or her commission to another state. If you would like to become a notary in another state, you will probably have to meet that state’s specific requirements. Therefore, your commission will not transfer to another state. Instead, you will have to go through the application and qualification process a second time. It is important to keep this in mind if you would like to become a notary in another state.

Becoming a Notary in Multiple States

Can I be a notary in two states? You might also be wondering if you can become a notary in multiple states. It is possible for you to become a notary in multiple states; however, this is an unusual process. There are situations where you can apply for a notary commission in multiple states; however, a lot of states will require you to be a resident of the state in which you are earning a notary commission. The most common situation where someone may hold a commission in multiple states is if they live in one state and work in another. In that case, the individual may apply for a commission in both states.

Even if you do not apply for a notary commission in multiple states, there may be some situations where you can perform notarial acts outside of your state. Comment examples where this may be possible include Kentucky, Montana, and Virginia. Again, it is important for you to read closely to figure out when you can perform notarial acts outside of your commission and what type of notarial acts you may be performing.

Consider Becoming a Notary for OneNotary

onenotary

If you are interested in expanding your notary practice, you may want to consider becoming a virtual notary for OneNotary. In the past, individuals used to drive around looking for a physical notary. Now, it is possible for people to meet with a notary online. This makes the process more convenient, which means you may be able to notarize more documents.

A few advantages of going through the notary process virtually include:

  • Individuals do not have to spend a lot of time driving around looking for a notary
  • Individuals who need to get documents notarized may be able to save money
  • A virtual notary has the ability to set his or her own schedule, controlling when he or she might work
  • A virtual notary might be able to notarize more documents, expanding his or her business

If you are thinking about becoming a notary, consider notarizing documents virtually. This is a great way for you to expand your resume and become more competitive for certain jobs.