Become a Notary Public

Requirements:

  • Be at least eighteen (18) years of age;
  • Be a citizen or permanent legal resident of the United States;
  • Be a resident of or have a place of employment or practice in this state;
  • Be able to read and write English;
  • Not be disqualified to receive a commission under §42-30.1-16; and
  • Demonstrate sufficient knowledge of the powers and duties pursuant to the requirements of this chapter.

Other Qualifications:

  • Be an attorney in good standing applying as a member of the RI Bar Association; or
  • Be a certified public accountant in good standing applying as a certified Rhode Island licensee

Powers and Duties

Notaries Public in Rhode Island are commissioned to four-year terms and are authorized to take acknowledgements, administer oaths and affirmations, execute jurats, witness signatures, certify copies, execute protests and issue subpoenas to witnesses.

How to Apply:

STEP 1

Get your application ready

  • Visit our website, review our educational resources and take the “Notary Knowledge Assessment” to demonstrate sufficient knowledge of the powers and duties to the requirements of this chapter.
  • Complete and print the Notary Application Form
  • You must appear before a Rhode Island Notary Public to take the Oath of Office and complete the certificate.  Notaries are available at our office to perform this service.
STEP 2

Fee

  • Fee: $80 Non-refundable.
  • Make check payable to: RI Department of State
STEP 3

Submit your application

  • Mail or bring your application to:
    RI Department of State
    148 W. River St.
    Providence, RI 02904

Once your completed application is received by our office, it is processed within 3-5 business days and then your commission will be mailed to the address on the application.

Notary supplies and tutorials:

Download our notary manual

Learn from our tutorials

Notary supplies

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