Looking to make a difference in your community? Let us guide you on a rewarding journey towards a unique profession.

In this comprehensive guide on how to become a notary in Vermont, we lay out the roadmap to achieving this goal. With easy-to-follow, actionable steps, we’ll help you navigate this intriguing process, turning the complex into simple.

Whether you’re looking to serve your community or generate additional income, this article will offer everything you need to know to get started.

Become a Notary in Vermont

In order to become a notary signing agent in Vermont, you will need to complete a few simple steps.

Step 1: Meet the Basic Requirements

In Vermont, there are a few essential notary requirements you need to meet before you can apply:

• Be at least 18 years old
• Be a permanent legal resident or citizen of the U.S.
• Be a resident of or an employee under Vermont law

Any convictions must be reported, and all necessary documentation provided, such as written explanations and certified court documents.

Note: Individuals from certain professions are exempt from having to complete certain steps. For a full list of these professions, see the Vermont Office of Professional Regulation’s List of Exceptions.

Step 2: Create an Account on the Office of Professional Regulation Website

Begin your notary application by creating an account on Vermont’s Office of Professional Regulation website. This is the hub from which you can apply, renew, and update an application or license.

You will need the following important pieces of information to be able to set up your account:

• Social Security Number
• Driver’s license
• Home address (and mailing address if different)
• Business name, address, and phone number

After creating an account and logging in, click “Apply for Individual License” and then “Notaries Public” from the drop-down menu.

Vermont Secretary of State recommends reviewing their application fees and 90 Day Initial Licensing Policy before initiating your application — which can be found here.

Step 3: Upload Your Notarized Oath of Office

The next step in this process is to complete the Oath of Office/Affirmation form and get it notarized. You can do this by taking the oath before a duly commissioned Justice of the Peace or Notary Public.

Then, upload a scanned copy of this notarized document to the Office of Professional Regulation’s online system and pay the non-refundable $30 application fee.

Note: Applications can only be submitted through this online portal, mail applications are not accepted. Do NOT send this form to the Vermont State Archives and Records Administration, OR the Office of Professional Regulation.

Step 4: Take the Vermont Jurisprudence Exam

As you continue the process of completing your online application, you will be prompted to download the Vermont State Jurisprudence exam.

Once you have completed this exam, upload a scanned copy of your answer sheet and submit your application.

Note: You will receive an email within three to five business days once your notary application is approved. You can find your notary commission certificate available to print from the OPR’s online services platform.

Step 5: Protect Yourself with Errors and Omissions Insurance

While not required by law, it’s a good idea to consider protecting yourself with Errors and Omissions (E&O) insurance.

This type of insurance provides coverage for any potential mistakes or omissions that you might make as you perform notarial acts. It’s an extra layer of protection that can give you peace of mind while operating for a relatively low opportunity cost.

Step 6: Equip Yourself With the Necessary Supplies

Once your notary commission is approved, get yourself set up with the necessary notary supplies. These include a notary stamp or seal and a Vermont notary journal.

The seal is used to authenticate your notarial acts, and the record book is for logging every notarial act you perform.

Step 7: Purchase a Course (Optional)

Even though this last step is not a legal requirement, you should note that several Vermont notary applicants choose to invest in a notary course. This is because it can offer several benefits, such as:

• Understanding the Law: Notary laws can be complex and vary from state to state. A course can help ensure that notary signing agents fully understand Vermont notary laws and how to apply them correctly
• Professional Development: A course can enhance professional skills, making a notary more effective and competent in their role
• Reducing Liability: By better understanding the rules and best practices, Vermont notaries can reduce the risk of making errors that could result in legal action
• Increased Confidence: A notary course can boost a notary’s confidence by giving them a solid foundation of knowledge and expertise to draw from
• Staying Updated: Laws and procedures change over time. A course can help notaries stay current with any changes in notary regulations and practices

So, while it’s not mandatory in Vermont, many aspiring notaries find value in such courses. It’s a personal decision based on individual comfort and professional goals.