To become an Iowa Notary Public, complete the following steps:
- Meet Iowa's eligibility requirements.
- Complete the Application for Appointment as Notary Public.
- Submit the application and $30 fee to the Notary Division of the Secretary of State's office.
- Buy your official Notary seal.
About the Iowa Notary Process
The term of an Iowa Notary commission is three years for an Iowa resident and one year for a resident of a state bordering Iowa. Here is some more information about applying for a Notary Public commission.
Cost to Become an IA Notary
The cost to become an Iowa Notary is approximately $60, but the final cost will depend on where you purchase your Notary seal and additional, recommended supplies.
| Expense |
Cost |
| Application fee |
$30 |
| Notary seal |
$30 |
| Total Cost |
$60 |
Commission Processing Time
The Iowa Secretary of State recommends allowing four to six weeks for the processing of a Notary Public commission application.
Iowa Notary Public Requirements
Information about Notary training and supplies can be found below.
Eligibility
A Notary Public applicant in Iowa must meet the following requirements:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Be a citizen or permanent legal resident of the U.S.
- Live or work in the state of Iowa (if you’re an out-of-state applicant, you must live in a state bordering Iowa)
- Be able to read and write English
- Not have been convicted of a felony involving fraud, dishonesty or deceit, or a finding against, or admission of liability by, the applicant in any legal proceeding or disciplinary action based on the applicant’s fraud, dishonesty or deceit
Application
Complete the Application for Appointment as Notary Public. By filling out the form, you are making your oath of office.
The Secretary of State will send your Notary commission to you.
Notary Supplies
Iowa Notaries must have a stamp that is capable of being copied together with the record to which it is affixed or attached. The seal must contain the following information:
- Your name as it appears on your commission
- The words "Notarial Seal"
- The word "Iowa"
- The words "Commission Number _______ (number the Secretary of State assigned to you)"
- The words "My Commission Expires _______ (date or blank line)"
The Secretary of State may require additional information to be included. Verify seal requirements before placing your order.
If the official stamp has a blank line, you must print the date your term would ordinarily expire on each notarized document.
Iowa Notary Public FAQs
Wondering where you can notarize or how much Notaries can charge? Read on below.
Which state government office handles Notaries?
The Iowa Office of Secretary of State, Notary Division, located in Des Moines, IA, commissions Notaries Public.
May I become an Iowa Notary if I am not a U.S. citizen?
Yes. You do not have to be a U.S. citizen to become an Iowa Notary Public. You must, however, be a permanent legal resident of the United States.
Is there training or an exam required to become an IA Notary?
While taking a Notary training course is not required by law, it is strongly recommended that you read the Handbook for Iowa Notaries Public and take a course of study that helps you learn the ins and outs of what a Notary does and why.
The NNA’s online Notary training course provides a strong foundation for new Iowa Notaries.
What is a surety bond, and why do I need one?
Iowa Notaries are not required to purchase a surety bond. A surety bond is a financial guarantee that the Notary will fulfill their obligations to notarize in compliance with state laws. This Notary bond specifically protects the public and not the Notary.
Notaries can insure themselves against possible legal costs or damages by getting an errors and omissions (E&O) insurance policy. Though not required by law, an E&O policy covers a Notary's legal fees and damages up to the amount of the policy.
Where will I be able to notarize?
An Iowa Notary may perform notarial acts anywhere within the state's borders.
Who can I notarize for?
Any member of the public, as long as the request meets all statutory requirements for notarization, excluding yourself and your spouse. You're prohibited from performing a notarial act in which you or your spouse have a direct beneficial interest.
How much can IA Notaries charge for their services?
Iowa Secretary of State allows Notaries to charge a reasonable fee per notarization. As a best practice, inform signers of your fees in advance to avoid any confusion.
What should I do if I move or change my name?
If you move or change your name, you can submit a Notary Public Change/Amendment to Application form to the Secretary of State.
If you change your name, you have the option to use your new one or continue using the one on your commission until your Notary term ends. It's recommended to update your name immediately with the SOS in case a third-party requests certification of your commission.
What is the process to renew my commission as an Iowa Notary?
The process of renewing your Iowa Notary commission is the same as the first-time application process. Approximately two months before your commission expires, the Secretary of State will send you a renewal form that you’ll need to submit.
What do I need to know about remote online notarization in Iowa?
On July 1, 2020, Iowa authorized remote online notarizations (RON). Notaries must hold an existing commission as a Notary Public before they can apply. Once you're commissioned, follow the steps in this guide to become an IA remote Notary.
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Last updated: Jul 10, 2025