What are the requirements to become a notary in Arkansas?

To become a notary in Arkansas, you must be at least 18 years old, a legal resident of the state, and able to read and write English. You cannot have any felony convictions unless your rights have been restored. You must also obtain a surety bond of at least $7,500 and purchase an official notary seal before receiving your commission.

What are the steps to apply for an Arkansas notary commission?

First, complete the notary application through the Arkansas Secretary of State website. Next, purchase a $7,500 surety bond from an authorized bonding company. Submit the application along with your bond to the Secretary of State office and pay the filing fee. Once approved, purchase your official notary seal and stamp before performing any notarial acts.

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

The processing time for an Arkansas notary commission typically takes two to four weeks after the Secretary of State receives your completed application and surety bond. You can check the status of your application through the Secretary of State website. Your commission is not active until you receive official confirmation, so do not perform notarial acts before that date.

Do you need to pass a test to become a notary in Arkansas?

Arkansas does not require a mandatory exam to obtain your initial notary commission. However, applicants are expected to understand notary laws and procedures outlined in Arkansas Code Title 21, Chapter 14. Many new notaries choose to take voluntary training courses to learn proper identification verification, journal keeping, and certificate completion to avoid costly legal mistakes.

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

The total cost to become an Arkansas notary typically ranges from $50 to $150. This includes the state filing fee, a $7,500 surety bond which usually costs between $30 and $50 annually depending on your credit, and the purchase of an official notary seal and stamp. Some applicants also invest in a notary journal and errors and omissions insurance.

How long is an Arkansas notary commission valid?

An Arkansas notary commission is valid for ten years from the date of issuance. Before your commission expires, you must submit a renewal application and a new surety bond to the Secretary of State. It is recommended to begin the renewal process at least 30 days before expiration to avoid any lapse in your ability to perform notarial acts.

Can you become an Arkansas notary if you have a criminal record?

Arkansas law prohibits individuals with felony convictions from serving as notaries unless their civil rights have been fully restored through a pardon or other legal process. Misdemeanor convictions do not automatically disqualify you, but the Secretary of State may review your application more carefully. Dishonesty-related offenses such as fraud or forgery are likely to result in denial.

Where do you file your Arkansas notary application?

All notary applications in Arkansas are filed with the Arkansas Secretary of State, located at 500 Woodlane Street, Suite 256, in Little Rock. You can submit your application online through the Secretary of State website or mail it with your surety bond and filing fee. The online portal also allows you to check application status and manage your commission details.

Arkansas Notary Exam: Ace Your AR Notary Test 2026 June

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AR Notary - Arkansas Notary Exam By Attorney Sarah WilliamsJun 3, 202662 min read

Arkansas Notary Exam: Ace Your AR Notary Test 2026 June

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The Arkansas Notary Exam is administered by the Secretary of State's Business and Commercial Services division. A passing score of 80% is required to obtain your commission.

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FREE ARKANSAS NOTARY PRACTICE TEST

ARKANSAS NOTARY EXAM QUESTIONS QUIZ

Arkansas Notary Exam Study Guide

This Arkansas Notary study guide breaks down essential information for your commission. From the Arkansas Notary Application to passing the exam, explore these key topics.

What is an Arkansas Notary?	An Arkansas Notary Public is a public official appointed by the Secretary of State to serve as an impartial witness to the signing of important documents and administer oaths.
Who can become a notary in Arkansas?	Any legal resident of Arkansas (or bordering state resident employed in Arkansas) who is at least 18 years old and has no felony convictions can apply for an Arkansas Notary commission.
What is the Arkansas Notary Handbook?	The Arkansas Notary Handbook is the official study resource provided by the Secretary of State. It covers all laws, rules, and procedures required for the Arkansas Notary Exam.
Do I need a bond for Arkansas Notary?	Yes, all applicants must purchase a $7,500 surety bond. This Arkansas Notary Bond protects the public from financial harm caused by notary errors or misconduct.

What is an Arkansas Notary?

An Arkansas Notary Public is a public official appointed by the Secretary of State to serve as an impartial witness to the signing of important documents and administer oaths.

Who can become a notary in Arkansas?

Any legal resident of Arkansas (or bordering state resident employed in Arkansas) who is at least 18 years old and has no felony convictions can apply for an Arkansas Notary commission.

What is the Arkansas Notary Handbook?

The Arkansas Notary Handbook is the official study resource provided by the Secretary of State. It covers all laws, rules, and procedures required for the Arkansas Notary Exam.

Do I need a bond for Arkansas Notary?

Yes, all applicants must purchase a $7,500 surety bond. This Arkansas Notary Bond protects the public from financial harm caused by notary errors or misconduct.

Topics: Liability, Protection
Questions: Requirement Check

The Arkansas Notary Handbook is your primary resource. Almost all exam questions are drawn directly from this document. Focus on the sections regarding Arkansas Notary Acknowledgement forms, prohibited acts, and maximum fees. Reviewing these key areas will significantly improve your chances of passing the Arkansas Notary Exam.

If you are preparing for notary exams in other states, you may also want to try our CA Notary practice test, which covers California's detailed notary laws and procedures.

Those interested in notary requirements across different regions can also benefit from our AZ Notary practice test to familiarize themselves with Arizona's notarial standards and signing agent guidelines.

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Arkansas Notary Score Calculator

Total Scored Questions

150

How many questions did you answer correctly?

0105150

105 out of 150 correct

70%

Required to Pass: ~70% (Estimated)

Your Score: 105 correct✓PASS

The total investment to become a notary in Arkansas is relatively low compared to other states. Since the commission lasts for 10 years, the annual cost breakdown is exceptional value for a professional credential.

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ARKANSAS NOTARY EXAM PRACTICE QUESTIONS

Arkansas Notary Application Checklist

✓Purchase $7,500 Surety Bond
✓Create BCS Online Account
✓Complete Application Form
✓Review Arkansas Notary Handbook
✓Pass Arkansas Notary Exam
✓Pay $20 Application Fee
✓Sign Oath of Office
✓File with County Clerk

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Arkansas Notary Renewal Process

📅

Frequency Every

10 Years

📝

Requirement New Bond

& App

💵

Cost

$20 Fee

You can start your Arkansas Notary Renewal up to 60 days before your current commission expires. Don't let it lapse, or you'll have to stop notarizing until you are re-commissioned.

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AR Notary Questions and Answers

About the Author

Attorney Sarah WilliamsJD, NNA Certified Notary, Notary Signing Agent

Notary Public Law Expert & State Notary Exam Specialist

Georgetown University Law Center

Attorney Sarah Williams is a licensed attorney and National Notary Association (NNA) certified notary with a Juris Doctor from Georgetown University Law Center. She has 13 years of experience in notarial law, document authentication, and real estate closings. Sarah coaches candidates through state notary public examinations, notary signing agent certification, and loan signing agent training programs.