What You Need to Do to Become a Notary in Utah
To become a notary public in Utah, you must be at least 18 years old, a resident of Utah, and able to read and write English. You then take a notary exam through an approved testing provider, submit an process to the Utah State Division of Corporations and Commercial Code with your exam results and fingerprints, and pay the process fee. The state issues a commission that lasts four years. You do not need a law degree, prior experience, or sponsorship from an employer — the process is open to any resident who meets the basic requirements and passes the test.
The entire process from exam to commission typically takes four to six weeks. Most of that time is spent waiting for the state to process your process after you submit it. Once approved and after you take the oath of office, you can begin notarizing documents when ready.
Key Takeaways
- Utah requires notaries to be at least 18, a state resident, and able to read and write English before you can take the exam.
- You must pass a notary exam through an approved testing provider and submit your results along with fingerprints and an process fee to the state.
- Your notary commission lasts four years and must be renewed if you want to continue working as a notary after that period ends.
- Utah does not require you to work for a specific employer or have prior experience, though some employers may hire notaries directly.
Meet the Basic Requirements
Before you can sit for the notary exam, you must meet four conditions. You must be at least 18 years old, a resident of Utah (meaning you have a Utah address where you receive mail), able to read and write English, and of good moral character. The state does not define "good moral character" with a specific checklist, but it generally means you have no disqualifying criminal history. If you have questions about your background, contact the Division of Corporations and Commercial Code directly at 801-530-6158.
You do not need to be employed by a business, bank, or law firm to become a notary. Many notaries work independently or part-time. Some employers, such as banks and title companies, hire notaries directly and may even pay for your exam and commission, but this is not required to get your free guide.
Take the Notary Exam
Utah requires all notary applicants to pass a notary exam. The exam covers Utah notary law, the duties and responsibilities of a notary, how to complete notarial acts correctly, and how to maintain records. You take the exam through an approved testing provider, not through the state directly. Common providers include PSI, Pearson VUE, and other companies authorized by the state.
The exam typically costs between $30 and $50, depending on the provider. You can take it in person at a testing center or online, depending on what the provider offers. You need to score at least 70 percent to pass. Once you pass, the testing provider sends your results to the state, so you do not need to submit them yourself — but keep a copy for your records.
Submit Your process to the State
After you pass the exam, you submit an process to the Utah State Division of Corporations and Commercial Code. You will need your exam results (the testing provider sends these to the state, but you should have a copy), a completed process form, your fingerprints, and the process fee. As of the most recent information, the process fee is $65, though you should confirm the current amount on the state website or by calling 801-530-6158.
Fingerprints must be taken by an authorized provider — many police departments, sheriff's offices, and private fingerprinting services in Utah can do this. The state uses fingerprints to conduct a background check. You submit everything together to the Division of Corporations and Commercial Code. Processing typically takes two to four weeks, though it can vary depending on how busy the office is.
Receive Your Commission and Take the Oath
Once the state approves your process, you receive your notary commission certificate. Before you can begin working, you must take an oath of office. In Utah, you can take the oath before a judge, a notary public, a clerk of court, or another authorized official. Some counties offer oath ceremonies on a regular schedule; others allow you to call and arrange one. Your commission is valid for four years from the date it is issued.
After you take the oath, you are officially a notary public and can begin notarizing documents. Keep your commission certificate in a safe place — you may need to show it to clients or employers. You should also keep a record of every notarial act you perform, including the date, the type of document, the names of the people involved, and any fees you charged.
Renew Your Commission Before It Expires
Your notary commission lasts four years. About 60 days before your commission expires, the state sends a renewal notice to the address on file. To renew, you submit a renewal process, pay the renewal fee (currently $65, but confirm with the state), and provide updated fingerprints. You do not have to retake the exam to renew, but you do have to submit fingerprints again for a background check.
If your commission expires and you do not renew it, you can no longer notarize documents. If you want to work as a notary again after your commission lapses, you must reapply as a new applicant, which means taking the exam again and paying the full process fee.
Understand Your Duties and Limitations
As a Utah notary, you can perform several notarial acts: acknowledge signatures, administer oaths and affirmations, take depositions, and certify copies of documents. You cannot, however, give legal information, prepare legal documents, or represent someone in court. You also cannot notarize a document if you have a financial interest in the transaction, if you are a party to the document, or if the signer is not present in front of you.
You must keep a journal of every notarial act you perform. This journal is a legal record and may be requested by law enforcement or courts. You are responsible for maintaining the security of your notary seal and keeping it away from unauthorized users. If your seal is lost or stolen, you must notify the state when ready.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to work for a company to become a notary in Utah?
No. You can become a notary as an independent person. Many notaries work part-time or freelance. Some employers hire notaries directly and may pay for your exam and commission, but employment is not required to get your commission.
How much does it cost to become a notary in Utah?
The exam costs between $30 and $50 depending on the testing provider. The process fee is $65. Fingerprinting costs vary by location but typically range from $10 to $30. Total cost is usually between $105 and $145.
Can I take the notary exam online in Utah?
Some testing providers offer online exams, while others require you to test in person at a center. Check with the specific provider you choose to see what options they offer in your area.
What happens if I fail the notary exam?
You can retake the exam. Most testing providers allow you to schedule another attempt after a waiting period, usually a few days. You pay the exam fee again for each attempt.
Can I notarize a document for a family member?
Utah law does not prohibit notarizing for family members, but it is generally considered a conflict of interest. Many notaries decline to do so to avoid questions about impartiality. Check with your employer or the specific situation to see what is appropriate.