Key Takeaways
- Complete free training through Secretary of State website
- Pass the 20-question online exam with 80% or higher
- Submit application with $40 fee
- Obtain $10,000 surety bond
- Take oath of office before notarizing
Last updated: January 2026
Oregon Notary Application Process
Oregon streamlines the notary application process with free online training and examination.
Application Steps
| Step | Action | Details |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Complete Training | Free through Secretary of State |
| 2 | Pass Exam | 20 questions, 80% passing |
| 3 | Submit Application | Online with $40 fee |
| 4 | Background Check | Automatic with application |
| 5 | Obtain Bond | $10,000 surety bond |
| 6 | Take Oath | Before performing notarial acts |
| 7 | Purchase Supplies | Seal, journal |
Training Options
| Option | Format | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Online tutorials | Self-paced | FREE |
| Live webinars | Scheduled | FREE |
| Notary Public Guide | PDF download | FREE |
Exam Details
| Component | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Questions | 20 total |
| Format | Online, open-book |
| Question types | Yes/no, true/false, multiple-choice |
| Passing score | Miss no more than 4 (80%) |
| Retakes | Unlimited, no waiting period |
| Cost | FREE |
Application Fee
| Fee | Amount |
|---|---|
| Application | $40 |
| Renewal | $40 |
Bond Requirement
| Bond Detail | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Amount | $10,000 |
| Term | Matches commission (4 years) |
| Typical cost | ~$50-100 for 4 years |
| Purpose | Protects public from notary errors |
Oath of Office
Before you can notarize:
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Who administers | Any person authorized to administer oaths |
| When | After commission is issued |
| Required | Yes, before any notarial acts |
| Where to file | With Secretary of State |
Timeline
| Stage | Estimated Time |
|---|---|
| Training | 1-2 hours |
| Exam | 30 minutes |
| Application processing | 2-4 weeks |
| Total | 3-5 weeks |
On the Exam
Application questions focus on:
- Training cost: FREE
- Application fee: $40
- Bond amount: $10,000
- Exam format: Open-book, 20 questions
- Training validity: 6 months to take exam
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Test Your Knowledge
What is the application fee for an Oregon notary commission?
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Test Your Knowledge
What is the surety bond amount required for Oregon notaries?
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Test Your Knowledge
What must be completed before an Oregon notary can perform notarial acts?
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