Notary Public Permit Requirements in Paterson, NJ

Complete permit and license guide for starting a notary public in Paterson, Passaic County, New Jersey.

Verified 2026-08-31 4 stops $75–$350 est. 2–4 weeks to complete all steps and receive commission
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Not legal advice. Requirements may change — always verify with your local government authority before applying. Key agencies and fees on this page were re-checked against official government sources on .

Federal — start here

1 stop

  1. EIN (Employer Identification Number)

    Required if you operate as an LLC/corporation or have employees. Sole proprietor notaries with no employees may use their SSN.

    Official government source

    FreeImmediate (online)

State of New Jersey

2 stops

  1. New Jersey Notary Public Commission

    Apply through the New Jersey Department of the Treasury, Division of Revenue and Enterprise Services, for a notary commission. Applicants must complete the Notary Commissioning Application and pass the Notary Public Exam (new applicants; not required for timely renewals). Oath is taken before a county clerk or Superior Court.

    Official government source

    $25 (filing fee)2–4 weeks

  2. Notary Errors & Omissions Insurance (Recommended)

    While not required in New Jersey, E&O insurance protects notaries from financial losses due to unintentional mistakes. Coverage of $25,000–$100,000 typically costs $40–$80/year. The National Notary Association offers bundled packages.

    $40–$80/yearImmediate

City of Paterson / Passaic County

1 stop

  1. Paterson Mercantile License (if operating a notary business)

    City ordinance requires Paterson businesses to register and obtain a Mercantile License, administered by the City's Department of Health & Human Services, Mercantile Licensing division (125 Ellison St, 973-321-1242) — not the City Clerk's Office. A standalone notary business (mobile notary, signing agent) operating in the city would fall under this requirement. If notarization is incidental to another profession (e.g., attorney, bank teller), a separate license may not be required.

    Official government source

    Fee is set by City ordinance and is not published online; confirm the current amount with Mercantile Licensing (973-321-1242)1–3 weeks

Terminus

Open for business — est. $75–$350 · 2–4 weeks to complete all steps and receive commission

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Official Sources

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