Notary Public Commissions are processed at the Covington location at 1840 Simon Kenton Way, Covington, KY

Notary Public commissions are valid for four (4) years and is governed by KRS 423.010.

Who can be a notary?  The following requirements must be met:

  • Must be eighteen (18) years or older
  • Be a citizen or permanent legal resident of the United States
  • Be a resident of or have a place of employment or practice in the county within this Commonwealth where the application is made;
  • Be able to read and write English;
  • Not be disqualified to receive a commission under KRS 423.395;
  • Submit to the Secretary of State any application forms, information, disclosures, and verifications as are required by administrative regulations promulgated by the Secretary of State;
  • Submit to the Secretary of State proof of having obtained the requisite surety bond required under KRS 423.390(4);
  • Take an oath of office as set forth in KRS 423.390(4)

How can I become a notary?

  • Visit the Secretary of State’s website to complete the application.  A form signed by the County Clerk is no longer required. The fee for application at the Secretary of State’s Office is $10.00.
  • Once approved, the applicant will be notified that a “Certificate of Appointment” has been made available to the county clerk’s office in the applicant’s county. The notice will indicate a thirty (30) day time period for the applicant to go to the county clerk’s office.
  • The applicant must come to the Covington location at 1840 Simon Kenton Way, Covington, KY to be sworn in.  The notary must provide government issued ID and $1,000 insurance bond.  There is a $19.00 recording fee ($10.00 for recording the bond, $4.00 for taking/preparing the bond, and $5.00 for administering the oath. KRS 64.012)
  • As of January 1, 2020, the surety bond for $1,000.00 must be from an approved insurance company.  Check with the insurance agency of your choice to request notary bond information.

Need to upgrade your notary to electronic/remote online notary?  You must apply with the Secretary of State’s Office. You can contact the Secretary of State’s Office at (502) 564-3490 or visit www.sos.ky.gov.

Need to change your name? You must apply with the Secretary of State’s Office. You can contact the Secretary of State’s Office at (502) 564-3490 or visit www.sos.ky.gov.

Effective 1/1/20

Notary FAQ

Q: What is the notary surety bond? A: In order to complete your notary commission, you must post bond in the amount of $1,000.00 with a notary surety bond from an approved insurance company. If the notary does something illegal with regard to notarizing a document, the insurance bond covers the penalty up to $1,000.00.

Q: Can I still have a property owner sign as surety? A: No. As of January 1, 2020, an insurance bond is required.

Q: Is the use of a seal necessary? A: As of January 1, 2020, it is no longer necessary to use a seal.  If the notary does choose to use a stamp or seal, the embossed seal must be inked.  The stamp must include the notary’s: name, title, jurisdiction, commission number, and expiration date. KRS 423.370  Other requirements for a seal apply to electronic and remote online notaries.

Q: Do I have to use my identification number when I notarize a document? A: Yes.  You must include your jurisdiction, commission number and expiration date.

Q: Is there a notary handbook available? A: For further notary information and/or handbook, please go to the Secretary of State’s website www.sos.ky.gov.

Q: Will I be notified when my commission is ready to expire? A: No. The Secretary of State does not send any reminders when your four-year commission will expire.

Q: How do I renew my notary? A: Four weeks prior to commission expiration reapply with the Secretary of State.

Q: How do I upgrade my notary so I can do electronic or remote online notaries?  A: You must contact the Secretary of State office first and apply to be a electronic/remote notary.  Once approved, you will need to secure a $1,000 insurance bond. Bring the bond and a copy of your old notary to the County Clerk’s office for recording. Fee to upgrade is $19.00.

Q: How do I change my name on my notary? A: You need to apply with the Secretary of State for a name change.  This will not extend the life of your current notary but you will receive a new notary certificate.  You will need to complete this change of name with the County Clerk by bringing a copy of your old notary.  Fee for change of name is $19.00