Notary Education and Testing
Education and Testing Requirements for Notary Applicants
All Ohio notary public applicants — including those seeking initial commission, renewal, or remote online notarization (RON) authorization — must complete mandatory education and testing before applying through the Ohio Secretary of State’s office.
These requirements ensure that every notary understands their legal duties, ethical responsibilities, and the correct procedures for notarizing documents in Ohio.
Key Requirements
All applicants must complete approved notary education and testing before submission of an application, renewal, or RON authorization.
Applicants must contact an authorized provider directly to schedule education and testing and pay the required provider fee.
Proof of completion will be issued by the authorized provider after successful completion.
The proof of completion must be uploaded as part of your application submission to the Secretary of State’s office.
Education must be completed within 12 months before the date of your notary application or renewal.
Important: Education and testing fees are non-refundable. Before completing education and testing, order your BCI background check to ensure you do not have any disqualifying offenses under Ohio Revised Code 9.79.
Fee Information
Education and testing fees vary by provider. Fees are paid directly to the authorized provider. All fees are non-refundable, regardless of testing outcome or withdrawal.
Tip: Review the fee chart below for details on provider pricing.
Filing Type | Fee paid directly to the Authorized Provider | Education Hours Required | Test Requirement |
|---|---|---|---|
Non-attorney Initial Application | $130 | 3 | Yes |
Attorney Initial Application | $75 | 3 | No |
Non-attorney Renewal | $45 | 1 | No |
Online authorization application for non-attorney and attorney notary public | $250 | 2 | Yes |
Online authorization renewal for non-attorney and attorney notary public | $160 | 1 | No |