Notary Fees
Pennsylvania notarial fees are set by the Department of State fee schedule; a notary may not exceed the maximum but may waive fees.
Maximum fees by act
Fees are capped by the Department of State schedule—for example, a maximum of $5 for taking an acknowledgment, $5 for administering an oath or affirmation, and set amounts for verifications and certifications. A notary must not charge more than the scheduled maximum and should post fees where notarial services are offered.
Clerical/administrative and travel fees
Beyond the notarial-act fee, a notary who provides clerical or administrative services may charge a separate, disclosed fee, and a travel fee may be charged by prior agreement. All fees charged should be recorded in the journal. Verify the current fee schedule before relying on any amount.
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