Key Takeaways
- Must register with Prometric and pass the exam BEFORE applying
- Application fee is \$43 (includes filing and bond fee)
- Must obtain a \$5,000 surety bond from a licensed surety
- Submit original application, bond, and fee to Secretary of State
- Processing time is approximately 4 weeks
Arizona Notary Application Process
The application process for becoming an Arizona notary involves several steps that must be completed in a specific order. Since July 2025, passing the competency exam is required BEFORE submitting your application.
Application Steps Overview
| Step | Action | Timing |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Register with Prometric and pass exam | First |
| 2 | Obtain $5,000 surety bond | After passing exam |
| 3 | Complete application form | After obtaining bond |
| 4 | Have bond notarized | Before submission |
| 5 | Submit to Secretary of State | With $43 fee |
| 6 | Receive commission | ~4 weeks processing |
Step 1: Pass the Competency Exam
Before applying, you must:
- Create a Prometric account
- Obtain your Candidate ID number
- Schedule and pass the exam (80% required)
- Retain proof of passing (valid for 90 days)
Step 2: Obtain a Surety Bond
A $5,000 surety bond is required with your application.
| Bond Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Bond amount | $5,000 |
| Term | 4 years (matches commission) |
| Typical cost | $50 - $100 |
| Issuer | Licensed surety company |
| Purpose | Protects the public from notary errors |
Important: The bond must be signed by the surety company AND notarized before submission.
What the Bond Covers
The surety bond protects the public (not you) from financial harm caused by:
- Errors in notarization
- Negligent acts
- Misconduct
If a claim is paid on your bond, you may be required to reimburse the surety company.
Step 3: Complete the Application
The application requires:
- Full legal name
- Arizona residence address
- Date of birth
- Social Security Number
- Email address
- Candidate ID (from Prometric)
- Original signed and notarized bond
Step 4: Submit Application
Submit to the Secretary of State:
| Item | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Application form | Original, signed |
| Surety bond | Original, signed and notarized |
| Fee | $43 (check or money order) |
| Method | Mail to Phoenix office |
Mailing Address: Arizona Secretary of State Business Services Division 1700 W. Washington Street, FL 7 Phoenix, AZ 85007
Step 5: Processing and Commission
| Timeline | What Happens |
|---|---|
| Submission | Application received |
| Review | ~4 weeks processing |
| Approval | Commission certificate mailed |
| Commission start | Date on certificate |
| Commission end | 4 years from start date |
Costs Summary
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| Exam fee | $46.75 |
| Application/filing fee | $43.00 |
| Surety bond | ~$50-100 |
| Seal/stamp | ~$20-50 |
| Journal | ~$15-30 |
| Total estimated | $175-270 |
What is the surety bond amount required for Arizona notaries?
What must be completed BEFORE submitting a notary application in Arizona?