Tennessee Notary Education & Commission Requirements

How to Become a Notary in Tennessee

Tennessee does not require continuing education for notary commission renewal. Once commissioned, you simply renew your commission every 4 years without additional coursework.

Tennessee 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 $10,000 surety bond before filing your application. Bonds typically cost $30-$60 for the full commission term.

Tennessee 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 Tennessee notary.

Tennessee Notary Commission Requirements at a Glance

• Minimum age: 18 years old
• Residency: Must be a legal resident of Tennessee or have a principal place of business in the state
• Education: No formal education required
• Exam: No exam required
• Bond: $10,000
• Filing fee: $15
• Commission term: 4 years
• Estimated total cost: $50 - $90
• Processing time: 2-4 weeks

Step-by-Step Process

1. Verify eligibility — Must be at least 18, a Tennessee resident, and have no disqualifying criminal history
2. Obtain your surety bond — Purchase a $10,000 bond from a licensed surety company
3. Submit your application — File with the Tennessee Secretary of State and pay the $15 filing fee
4. Purchase your notary seal and supplies — Required for performing notarial acts

Remote Online Notarization (RON) in Tennessee

Tennessee 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 Tennessee 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 Tennessee?

Total costs typically run $50 - $90, including surety bond, state filing fee ($15), and notary seal/supplies.

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

The entire process typically takes 2-4 weeks from application to receiving your commission, depending on Tennessee Secretary of State processing times.

How long does a Tennessee notary commission last?

A Tennessee notary commission is valid for 4 years. You can apply for renewal before your commission expires.