Seal, Stamp & Signature
New York does not require a traditional embossed seal; instead the notary must legibly print required information near the signature.
Required statement, not a seal
New York does not mandate an embossing seal. Instead, when notarizing, the notary must print, typewrite, or stamp beneath their signature: the words 'Notary Public State of New York,' the county in which originally qualified, the notary's name, and the commission expiration date (and the county where the certificate is filed if different). A rubber stamp with this information is commonly used.
Signature and authenticating information
The notary signs exactly as their name appears on the commission and includes the required identifying statement. Because there is no mandatory embosser, the printed authenticating statement is what identifies the New York notary on each document.
State-specific details
State exam facts
- State regulator
- New York Department of State, Division of Licensing Services
- Passing score
- 70%
Does New York require a notary exam?
Yes. New York uses a walk-in, closed-book, written multiple-choice exam administered by the Department of State — there is no pre-registration and seating is first-come. It is based on the Notary Public License Law booklet. New York attorneys and Unified Court System court clerks are exempt.
What score do I need to pass the New York notary exam?
You must score at least 70% to pass; results are reported as pass or fail rather than a numeric grade.
How much can a New York notary charge per act?
New York caps notary fees at $2.00 per notarial act under Executive Law §136 — one of the lowest statutory fee limits in the country.
How long is a New York notary commission?
A New York notary public commission runs for 4 years.
Sources: https://dos.ny.gov/notary-public, https://dos.ny.gov/become-notary-public