A Guide to Becoming a Notary Public in Louisiana

If you are interested in pursuing a career as a Notary Public in Louisiana, there are several steps you must take to become certified and authorized to perform notarial acts. Notaries play a crucial role in verifying and certifying important documents, contracts, and transactions. Here is a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the process of becoming a Notary Public in Louisiana.

1. Eligibility Requirements:
To become a Notary Public in Louisiana, you must meet certain eligibility criteria, including:
– Being at least 18 years old
– Being a legal resident of Louisiana or a neighboring state
– Being able to read, write, and understand English
– Having a high school diploma or GED equivalent
– Having a clean criminal record
– Not having been convicted of a felony or any crime related to dishonesty or fraud

2. Educational Requirement:
Louisiana requires all applicants to complete a notary education course before applying for a Notary Public commission. The Louisiana Secretary of State offers a six-hour education course that covers the duties and responsibilities of a Notary Public, the proper notarial acts, and the laws governing notarial practices.

3. Application Process:
Once you have completed the notary education course, you can proceed with the application process. You will need to submit the following documents:
– The completed notary application form, which can be obtained from the Louisiana Secretary of State’s website
– Proof of completion of the notary education course
– A clear photocopy of your driver’s license or identification card issued by the Louisiana Office of Motor Vehicles

4. Notary Bond and Insurance:
As part of the application process, you are required to obtain a $10,000 surety bond from a licensed Louisiana surety company. This bond is a form of protection for the public in case a Notary fails to perform their duties properly.

Although not mandatory in Louisiana, it is highly recommended that Notaries also obtain errors and omissions (E&O) insurance. E&O insurance provides additional coverage in case a mistake or error is made during a notarial act.

5. Exam and Notary Commission:
After submitting your application and required documents, you will need to take and pass an exam administered by the Secretary of State’s office. The exam covers the laws and regulations governing notarial acts in Louisiana. Once you pass the exam, you will be commissioned as a Notary Public for a term of four years.

6. Notary Public Duties:
As a commissioned Notary Public in Louisiana, your duties include:
– Administering oaths and affirmations
– Witnessing signatures on documents
– Attesting to photocopies of documents
– Verifying identities of individuals
– Taking acknowledgments
– Noting protests of negotiable instruments

7. Continuing Education:
To maintain your Notary Public commission, Louisiana requires Notaries to complete three hours of continuing education every four years. This ensures that Notaries stay informed about changes to laws and regulations governing notarial acts.

Becoming a Notary Public in Louisiana can be a rewarding and fulfilling career choice. By following this guide and completing the necessary steps, you will be well-prepared to serve as a trusted and knowledgeable public official, playing a vital role in certifying and validating important documents for the community.