Notary Public Permit Requirements in New York City, NY

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

   Free·Immediate (online)

   Free

   Immediate (online)

1. New York Notary Public License

   Apply through the NY Department of State for a 4-year notary license. Must pass a written examination, be a NY resident or have a NY-based office, and be 18+. Oath taken before a county clerk.

   Official government source

   $60 application fee + $15 written exam fee (4-year commission; $60 renewal)·4–8 weeks

   $60 application fee + $15 written exam fee (4-year commission; $60 renewal)

   4–8 weeks

2. Notary Errors & Omissions Insurance (Recommended)

   While not required in New York, 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/year·Immediate

   $40–$80/year

   Immediate

1. No NYC business license required (NYS notary commission only)

   No New York City business license exists for notary businesses. A notary public is commissioned by the New York State Department of State ($60 application, 4-year term; renewals through the county clerk). Mobile notary and signing-agent work requires no additional NYC license. If operating under a trade name as a sole proprietor, file a Business Certificate with the borough County Clerk ($100 in New York County).

   Official government source

   $0 city license; NYS notary commission $60/4 years·1–3 weeks

   $0 city license; NYS notary commission $60/4 years

   1–3 weeks

Official Sources

• New York — Notary Public Requirements
• New York Secretary of State

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