Commission: Eligibility, Term, Bond & Oath
Pennsylvania commissions run four years. New applicants complete education, pass the Pearson VUE exam, obtain a bond, and register with the county recorder of deeds.
Eligibility, education, and exam
An applicant must be 18+, a resident of or have a place of employment/practice in Pennsylvania, be able to read/write English, and have no disqualifying criminal history. New (non-renewing) applicants must complete 3 hours of approved notary education within the six months before applying and pass the state exam through Pearson VUE ($65 per attempt).
Bond, commission, and registration
A Pennsylvania notary must obtain a $10,000 surety bond and, after the commission issues, register (record) the commission and signature with the recorder of deeds in the county of the notary's business address before performing acts. The commission term is four years.
State-specific details
State exam facts
- Exam vendor
- Pearson VUE
- Prelicensing education
- 3 hours (state-approved notary education, completed within 6 months before applying)
Does Pennsylvania require a notary exam?
Yes. Every first-time applicant (and anyone whose commission has lapsed) must pass the state notary exam delivered by Pearson VUE. The first attempt may be taken online from home via OnVUE; any retake must be in person at a test center, with unlimited retakes inside a 6-month window.
Do I need a course before the Pennsylvania notary exam?
Yes. Pennsylvania requires at least 3 hours of approved notary education, completed within the 6 months before you apply, before you can sit for the Pearson VUE exam.
How long is a Pennsylvania notary commission?
A Pennsylvania notary public commission runs for 4 years.
Sources: https://www.pa.gov/agencies/dos/programs/notaries, https://www.pa.gov/agencies/dos/programs/notaries/examination-requirement