Arkansas Notary Education & Commission Requirements

How to Become a Notary in Arkansas

Arkansas does not require continuing education for notary commission renewal. Once commissioned, you simply renew your commission every 10 years without additional coursework.

Arkansas does not require formal education or training to become a notary. However, investing in a quality training course is highly recommended to avoid costly mistakes. You’ll need to obtain a $7,500 surety bond before filing your application. Bonds typically cost $30-$60 for the full commission term.

Arkansas allows Remote Online Notarization (RON), opening up additional revenue opportunities for notaries who invest in RON platform training. Even without mandatory CE, additional training like loan signing agent certification and business marketing courses can significantly increase your earning potential as a Arkansas notary.

Arkansas Notary Commission Requirements at a Glance

• Minimum age: 18 years old
• Residency: Must be a legal resident of Arkansas or have a principal place of business in the state
• Education: No formal education required
• Exam: No exam required
• Bond: $7,500
• Filing fee: $20
• Commission term: 10 years
• Estimated total cost: $50 - $100
• Processing time: 4-6 weeks

Step-by-Step Process

1. Verify eligibility — Must be at least 18, a Arkansas resident, and have no disqualifying criminal history
2. Obtain your surety bond — Purchase a $7,500 bond from a licensed surety company
3. Submit your application — File with the Arkansas Secretary of State and pay the $20 filing fee
4. Purchase your notary seal and supplies — Required for performing notarial acts

Remote Online Notarization (RON) in Arkansas

Arkansas allows Remote Online Notarization, enabling you to notarize documents via live video call. To become a RON-certified notary, you’ll need to register with the state and use an approved technology platform. RON opens up significant additional revenue as you can serve clients anywhere without traveling.

Growing Your Arkansas Notary Business

Becoming a notary is just the first step. Here’s how to maximize your earning potential:

• Loan Signing Agent certification — Earn $75-$200 per signing appointment by specializing in real estate loan closings
• RON certification — Perform notarizations remotely and serve clients nationwide
• Mobile notary services — Travel to clients for a premium fee ($25-$75+ per trip)
• Notary supplies — Invest in quality stamps, journals, and a professional notary bag

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to become a notary in Arkansas?

Total costs typically run $50 - $100, including surety bond, state filing fee ($20), and notary seal/supplies.

How long does it take to become a notary in Arkansas?

The entire process typically takes 4-6 weeks from application to receiving your commission, depending on Arkansas Secretary of State processing times.

How long does a Arkansas notary commission last?

A Arkansas notary commission is valid for 10 years. You can apply for renewal before your commission expires.