Key Takeaways
- Exam is 20 questions: 10 true/false + 10 multiple-choice
- Must score 85% or higher (can miss only 3 questions)
- Only 3 attempts allowed - PERMANENT disqualification if all 3 fail
- Exam is FREE and open-book
- Passing score valid for 90 days
Last updated: January 2026
Nebraska Notary Exam: The Critical 3-Attempt Rule
WARNING: Permanent Disqualification After 3 Failed Attempts
Nebraska has one of the strictest notary exam policies in the United States. If you fail the exam three times, you are permanently ineligible to become a Nebraska notary public. There is no waiting period, no appeal, and no exception.
Exam Structure
| Component | Details |
|---|---|
| Total Questions | 20 questions |
| Format | 10 true/false + 10 multiple-choice |
| Type | Open-book exam |
| Cost | FREE |
| Passing Score | 85% (17 out of 20 correct) |
| Maximum Misses | 3 questions |
| Attempts Allowed | Only 3 |
The 3-Attempt Timeline
| Attempt | Timing | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 1st Attempt | Anytime | Take when ready |
| 2nd Attempt | Anytime after 1st | Can take immediately after failing |
| 3rd Attempt | 30-day wait after 2nd | Must wait if you failed the first two |
| After 3 failures | NEVER | Permanently disqualified |
Passing Score Validity
- Your passing score is valid for 90 days
- You must complete your application within this 90-day window
- If you miss the window, you must retake the exam (uses another attempt if available)
Critical Strategy Tips
Since you only have 3 attempts:
- Study thoroughly first - Don't take the exam until you're confident
- Use all resources - It's open-book, so have the Nebraska Notary Statutes ready
- Take your time - There is no time limit on the exam
- Review answers - Double-check before submitting
What the Exam Covers
| Topic | Examples |
|---|---|
| Notary qualifications | Age, residency, criminal history |
| Notarial acts | Acknowledgments, oaths, jurats |
| Identification | Acceptable ID, credible witnesses |
| Certificate requirements | Seal, wording, dates |
| Prohibited acts | Unauthorized practice of law, self-notarization |
| Fees | Maximum allowable charges |
| Bond requirements | $15,000 surety bond |
On the Exam
- 85% passing score - Can only miss 3 out of 20 questions
- 3 attempts only - Permanent disqualification after 3 failures
- 30-day wait - Required before the 3rd attempt
- 90-day validity - Must apply within 90 days of passing
- Open-book - Use Nebraska Notary Statutes as reference
Test Your Knowledge
John failed his Nebraska notary exam twice. What must he do before taking his third attempt?
A
B
C
D
Test Your Knowledge
Sarah passed her Nebraska notary exam on January 1st. By what date must she complete her application?
A
B
C
D
Test Your Knowledge
What is the consequence of failing the Nebraska notary exam three times?
A
B
C
D