This guide outlines both how to become a notary and how to renew your license, helping you stay compliant and ready to serve. We’ve also included a helpful FAQ section to address common concerns and ensure you have all the information you need in one place.
1. Requirements to Become a Notary in Colorado
Becoming a notary public in Colorado requires meeting certain eligibility criteria and following a step-by-step process to ensure you are properly commissioned. Here's how to get started:
Eligibility Criteria
Before you begin the application process, ensure you meet the following criteria:
- You must be at least 18 years old.
- You must be a legal resident of Colorado or maintain a place of employment within the state.
- You must be able to read and write English.
- You must not have any felony convictions or any misdemeanor convictions involving dishonesty within the past five years.
Step 1: Complete the Notary Training
Colorado requires all new notary applicants to complete a notary training course provided by the Colorado Secretary of State or an approved provider. The course can be taken online and covers Colorado-specific laws, ethics, and notarial acts.
Step 2: Pass the Colorado Notary Exam
After completing the training course, you must pass a notary exam administered by the Colorado Secretary of State. The exam is based on the content from the training and tests your knowledge of notary laws, ethics, and procedures.
Step 3: Submit a Notary Application
Once you’ve passed the exam, you will need to submit your notary application through the Colorado Secretary of State's online portal. The application requires you to provide proof of your completed training and exam results.
Step 4: Submit a $10,000 Surety Bond
Colorado requires all notaries to obtain a $10,000 surety bond. This bond must be filed with your application to protect the public from any errors or misconduct that you may commit as a notary.
Step 5: Pay the Application Fees
The fee for becoming a notary in Colorado is $10, which must be submitted with your application.
Step 6: Purchase Your Notary Seal and Journal
Once your application is approved, you will need to purchase a notary seal and notary journal. The seal must include your name, the words "Notary Public," "State of Colorado," and your commission expiration date. Colorado law also requires notaries to maintain a journal of all notarial acts.
Step 7: Receive Your Commission Certificate
After completing all the required steps and receiving approval, you will be issued your commission certificate from the Colorado Secretary of State’s office. This certificate confirms your official status as a notary public.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) For New Notaries
1. How long does it take to become a notary in Colorado?
The processing time is typically 1-2 weeks after you submit your application and pass the exam.
2. Where do I submit my notary application in Colorado?
Applications must be submitted through the Colorado Secretary of State’s online portal. Paper applications are not accepted.
3. What happens if my application is denied?
If your application is denied, you will receive instructions from the Colorado Secretary of State’s office on what actions you can take to correct any issues and reapply.
4. Do I need to maintain a notary journal in Colorado?
Yes, Colorado law requires notaries to maintain a notary journal that includes details such as the date, type of act, name and address of the signer, and form of identification used. Your journal must be securely stored.
2. Requirements for Notary License Renewal in Colorado
In Colorado, notary commissions are valid for four years, after which you must renew your license to continue performing notarial acts. Here’s what you need to know about renewing your commission:
Step 1: Reapply to the Secretary of State’s Office
Submit your renewal application through the Colorado Secretary of State’s online portal. The renewal process is similar to the initial application, including the submission of a new bond.
Step 2: Secure a New $10,000 Surety Bond
You are required to secure a new $10,000 surety bond for each renewal period. The bond must be submitted with your renewal application.
Step 3: Complete Notary Training (If Applicable)
If your notary commission has expired for more than 30 days, you will need to complete a refresher notary training course and pass the exam again to renew your commission.
Step 4: Pay the Renewal Fees
The renewal fee is $10 and must be submitted with your bond and renewal application.
Step 5: Update or Replace Your Notary Seal
If your notary seal has become worn or no longer meets the state’s requirements, you will need to purchase a new one. Ensure the updated seal includes your renewed commission expiration date.
Step 6: Maintain Your Notary Journal
Your notary journal must continue to be maintained throughout your notary career. Colorado law requires you to keep your journal for at least 10 years after the last notarial act recorded.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) For Renewing Notaries
1. What happens if my notary commission expires before I renew?
If your commission expires, you must stop performing notarial acts immediately. If more than 30 days have passed since your expiration, you will need to complete the notary training and exam again to renew your commission.
2. Can I perform remote notarizations in Colorado?
Yes, Colorado allows for remote online notarization (RON). You must register with the state and comply with the requirements, including using state-approved technology platforms.
3. What fees can I charge for notarial services in Colorado?
Colorado law allows notaries to charge a maximum of $5 per notarization. Additional fees for travel or other services may be charged but must be disclosed and agreed upon beforehand.
4. What should I do if my notary seal or journal is lost or stolen?
If your notary seal or journal is lost or stolen, you must notify the Colorado Secretary of State’s office immediately. You will need to obtain a replacement seal and secure any missing journal records.