Key Takeaways
- All applications are submitted online at notary.utah.gov
- The exam consists of 35 multiple-choice questions worth 65 points total (10 questions worth 4 points each)
- Passing score is 61 out of 65 points
- Testing and administration fee is $95 (retakes within 30 days cost $40)
- Results are provided immediately after payment
Utah Notary Application Process
The Utah Lieutenant Governor's Office has streamlined the notary application process to be entirely online. As of April 6, 2022, the office no longer accepts mailed notary documents.
Step-by-Step Application Process
Step 1: Create an Online Account
Visit notary.utah.gov and create a Notary Application Account. Important considerations:
- Register with the exact name you want on your commission and bond
- Your name on all documents (application, bond, seal) must match exactly
- Keep your login credentials secure
Step 2: Study for the Exam
Before taking the exam, review:
- Utah Notary Public Study Guide (available on notary.utah.gov)
- Utah Code Title 46-1 (Notaries Public Reform Act)
- Focus on notarial acts, identification requirements, and prohibited activities
Step 3: Take the Online Exam
| Exam Component | Details |
|---|---|
| Format | Multiple-choice, online |
| Number of Questions | 35 questions |
| Total Points | 65 points |
| Heavily Weighted Questions | 10 questions worth 4 points each (40 points) |
| Regular Questions | 25 questions worth 1 point each (25 points) |
| Passing Score | 61 points |
| Time Limit | Not strictly enforced |
Exam Strategy: Pay special attention to the 10 heavily weighted questions. Missing just one of these 4-point questions has the same impact as missing four regular questions.
Step 4: Pay the Testing Fee
| Fee Type | Amount |
|---|---|
| Initial testing and administration | $95 |
| Retake within 30 days | $40 |
| Retake after 30 days | $95 + new application required |
Results are displayed immediately after payment is processed.
Step 5: Authorize Background Check
After passing the exam:
- The system will prompt you to authorize a background check
- The Lieutenant Governor's Office receives results directly
- This is a mandatory step since November 1, 2019
Step 6: Obtain Your Surety Bond
| Bond Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Amount | $5,000 |
| Term | 4 years (matches commission term) |
| Issuer | Authorized surety company |
| Typical Cost | Approximately $50 |
| Signing | Must be signed by you AND the surety |
The bond start date becomes your commission start date. The bond protects the public from financial losses caused by a notary's mistakes or misconduct.
Step 7: Complete the Oath of Office
- The Oath of Office form is typically provided by your bond issuer
- You must sign the oath before another notary who will notarize it
- This is a sworn statement to faithfully perform your duties
Step 8: Upload Documents
Upload to the notary.utah.gov portal:
- Original $5,000 surety bond (signed by you and the surety)
- Notarized Oath of Office
Processing Time
The Utah Lieutenant Governor's Office estimates processing time of approximately two weeks after all documents are received.
Commission Certificate
Once approved, you will receive your Certificate of Authority of Notary Public. This certificate contains:
- Your commission number
- Commission start and expiration dates
- Your name as it will appear on your seal
On the Exam
- Passing score: 61 out of 65 points
- Heavily weighted: 10 questions worth 4 points each
- Testing fee: $95 initial, $40 retake within 30 days
- Bond start date: Becomes your commission start date
How many total points are possible on the Utah notary exam?
What document must be signed before another notary during the Utah notary application process?
What happens to a Utah notary applicant who fails the exam and wants to retake it within 30 days?