To become a notary public in Ohio, you must follow these steps:
1. **Meet the Eligibility Requirements**:
- Be at least 18 years old.
- Be a legal resident of Ohio or reside in an adjacent state and regularly work or conduct business in Ohio.
- Have no felony convictions or convictions involving dishonesty or fraud.
- Be able to read and write in English.
2. **Complete a Notary Education Course**:
- Ohio requires all new notary applicants to complete a three-hour education course approved by the Ohio Secretary of State.
3. **Pass the Notary Exam**:
- After completing the education course, you must pass a notary exam administered by the Ohio Secretary of State. The exam covers the laws and regulations related to notary public duties.
4. **Submit an Application**:
- Complete the notary application form provided by the Ohio Secretary of State's office.
- Include proof of completing the education course and passing the exam.
- Pay the application fee.
5. **Get a Surety Bond**:
- Obtain a surety bond in the amount of $5,000 from a bonding agency or insurance company authorized to do business in Ohio. The bond protects the public from financial harm resulting from improper notarial acts.
6. **Take the Oath of Office**:
- Once your application is approved, you will receive a commission certificate from the Ohio Secretary of State's office.
- Take the oath of office before a notary public or other official authorized to administer oaths.
- File the oath of office with your county's probate court.
7. **Purchase Notary Supplies**:
- Purchase an official notary seal and a notary journal to record all notarial acts.
- You may also want to consider getting errors and omissions insurance for additional protection.
8. **Begin Notarizing**:
- Once you receive your commission certificate and supplies, you can begin performing notarial acts within Ohio.
9. **Renew Your Commission**:
- Notary commissions in Ohio are valid for five years. To renew your commission, you must complete a renewal application, pay the renewal fee, and submit proof of completing a three-hour education course within the past six months.