How to Become a Notary in Iowa

Feb 17

2 min read

A notary public in Iowa is commissioned by the Iowa Secretary of State and is authorized to witness signatures, administer oaths, and certify documents. Notaries are essential for ensuring the legality of important documents and transactions. Becoming a notary in Iowa offers great opportunities for flexible income and business growth.

Why Become a Notary in Iowa?

Becoming a notary in Iowa can be a rewarding venture with benefits such as:

Low start-up costs, making it accessible to many.
Flexible work schedule, with the option to work part-time or full-time.
High demand for notary services, especially in real estate, legal, and financial sectors.
Potential for added services, such as mobile notary services, to increase earnings.

How to Become a Notary in Iowa, The Notary Business Blueprint, The Notary Blueprint

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify as a notary public in Iowa, you must:

Be at least 18 years old
Be a resident of Iowa or work in the state
Have no felony convictions

Step-by-Step Process to Become a Notary in Iowa

Complete and Submit a Notary Application
- Applications must be submitted to the Iowa Secretary of State.
Obtain a Notary Bond (If Applicable)
- A $5,000 surety bond is required only for notaries performing electronic notarization.
Pay the Application Fee
- The application fee is $30.
Receive Your Notary Commission
- Once approved, you will receive your notary commission certificate.
Purchase Notary Supplies
- Required supplies include a notary seal/stamp and a notary journal.

Fees for Becoming a Notary in Iowa

Expense	Cost
Application Fee	$30
Surety Bond (if applicable)	$50–$100
Notary Supplies	$50–$150

Total estimated cost: $80–$280

Other Potential Startup Costs

Errors & Omissions (E&O) Insurance – Not required but a good idea for additional protection. Typically costs $50–$150 per year.
Business Registration Fees – If you plan to register your business, fees may range from $50–$200.
Marketing & Website Costs – Building a professional presence online can range from $100–$500.

Renewal Process

Iowa notary commissions are valid for three years. To renew:

✔️ Submit a renewal application and pay the $30 fee.

Income & Fees for Notaries in Iowa

The maximum fee a notary can charge for a notarization in Iowa is $5 per notarization.
Increase your earnings by offering:
- Mobile notary services, including travel fees.
- Document preparation and loan signings.
- After-hours and emergency notary services.
- Document shipping and mailing for notarized documents.

By offering these additional services, you can increase the overall value of each client, potentially charging $25–$50 per client, depending on the service.