How to Become a Certified Notary Public in Massachusetts

If you're a prospective notary in the Bay State, you must meet several qualification requirements and submit an application to the Secretary of the Commonwealth to receive a commission.

This step-by-step guide walks you through the process of becoming a notary in Massachusetts.

1. Meet Massachusetts's Qualification Requirements

Notary applicants across the state, from Boston to Springfield, must meet the same set of basic requirements in order to be considered for a commission.

Specifically, notaries must be:

• At least 18 years old
• Able to read, write, and understand English.
• A resident in Massachusetts or conduct business on a regular basis in Massachusetts.

2. Complete the Notary Application

The notary application process is partially online but still requires physical signatures and in-person notarization. It starts on the Commonwealth of Massachusetts website, where you can download and print your copy of the application.

Next, you must become familiar with the notary public laws in Massachusetts by reading Chapter 222 of the General Laws, as amended by Chapter 289 of the Acts of 2016. While not a traditional class, reading through the material ensures you understand your notary public duties.

By submitting an application, you're agreeing to comply with every law contained in Chapter 222. Failure to do so may subject you to revocation proceedings as well as civil and criminal penalties.

Begin filling out the application with your personal information. Page three requires notarization by a current Massachusetts notary public in good standing.

The final application requirement should be familiar to anyone who has looked for a job: references. You need to include four references from people who know you, live in the state, can vouch for your character and think you are a good fit for the position. One reference must come from an attorney who is a current member of the state bar association.

3. Mail Your Application to The Commonwealth of Massachusetts

Now that your application has been notarized and you've gathered your references, staple all four pages together. Include an up-to-date copy of your resume, and if you have a business card, staple it to the upper left of the first page.

Mail your application to:
Notary Public Office
Room 184, State House
24 Beacon Street
Boston, MA 02133

Do not include any type of payment with your application!

4. Await Approval and Get Sworn In

It will take approximately 18 days to receive a notification in the mail confirming the approval of your application by the Governor and the Governor's Council.

Along with the notification of your appointment, you will receive directions for being sworn in and instructions on how to pay the $60 commission fee to the Secretary of the Commonwealth. Take the oath within three months before a justice of the peace or clerk in your county.

5. Get Your Commission and Purchase Supplies

Once you are commissioned as a notary public in the state of Massachusetts, you will receive your notary commission certificate.

With this commission, you can purchase essential supplies, like a notary stamp. The state does not manufacture stamps or seals, so you will need to purchase one from a trusted provider like Notaries.com.

If you purchase a stamp from our online store, email a copy of your commission to info@notaries.com so we can create a custom seal that meets state requirements.

It will display the following information:

• Your name as it appears on your commission
• The words "Notary Public"
• The words "Commonwealth of Massachusetts" or "Massachusetts"
• The words "My commission expires _____ (date)"
• The Great Seal of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts

And don't forget about the required record-keeping journal! Maintaining a detailed record of your notarizations can protect you from financial or legal liability if you are accused of making a mistake.

We also offer additional career resources, such as Notary Association of America membership, errors and omissions insurance for professional liability protection and an online notary signing agent course.

FAQs About the Application and Commission Process