Key Takeaways
- Ohio notary applications are submitted online at notary.ohiosos.gov
- Application fee is $15 for a 5-year commission
- Must obtain BCI criminal background check current within 6 months
- Oath of office must be taken before performing any notarial acts
- Attorney notaries have indefinite commissions while licensed
Last updated: January 2026
Ohio Notary Commission Overview
Understanding the complete application process helps you prepare for both the exam and your notary career.
Application Process Summary
| Step | Action | Details |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Background Check | BCI check, current within 6 months |
| 2 | Education | 3-hour approved course |
| 3 | Examination | Pass with 80% (attorneys exempt) |
| 4 | Application | Submit online with $15 fee |
| 5 | Approval | Wait for Secretary of State review |
| 6 | Oath | Take oath before notarizing |
Key Fees and Costs
| Fee Type | Amount |
|---|---|
| Application fee | $15 |
| BCI background check | ~$40-50 |
| Notary seal | ~$20-40 |
| Total estimated startup | ~$100-150 |
Commission Terms
| Notary Type | Term Length |
|---|---|
| Non-attorney | 5 years from issuance |
| Attorney | Indefinite (while licensed) |
| RON authorization | 5 years (separate from commission) |
Oath of Office Requirement
CRITICAL: You cannot perform any notarial acts until you have taken the oath of office.
| Oath Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| When | After application approval |
| Who administers | Any notary public or authorized officer |
| Where | Any location in Ohio |
| Must complete | Before ANY notarial duties |
Renewal Requirements
| Renewal Component | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Background check | New BCI check within 6 months |
| Education | 1-hour refresher course |
| Application window | Within 3 months of expiration |
| Fee | $15 |
Warning: If your commission expires before renewal, you must apply as a new applicant with full requirements.
Resources
| Resource | Location |
|---|---|
| Online application | notary.ohiosos.gov |
| Education providers | Listed on Secretary of State website |
| BCI background check | Attorney General's website |
On the Exam
Application process questions focus on:
- Application fee: $15
- Commission term: 5 years (non-attorneys)
- Background check: Current within 6 months
- Oath: Required before any notarizations
- Renewal window: 3 months before expiration
Test Your Knowledge
What is the application fee for an Ohio notary commission?
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Test Your Knowledge
When can a newly approved Ohio notary begin performing notarial acts?
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Test Your Knowledge
How current must a BCI background check be when submitting an Ohio notary application?
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