NOTARY PUBLIC -
APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS
(NEW APPOINTMENTS AND REAPPOINTMENTS)
Notaries public are appointed by the Governor pursuant to Title 29, Chapter 43, Delaware Code. Delaware law requires that notaries meet the following requirements (29 Del. C. §4301):
- Good character and reputation;
- A reasonable need for a notary commission;
- Legal residence within the State (except non-residents who maintain a Delaware workplace); and
- Be at least 18 years of age.
Note: If you are employed by the State of Delaware or a State, local, county or municipal police agency of Delaware, and wish to apply for a Limited Governmental Notary Public Commission, please click here for instructions. If you are applying for a Notary Public Commission under Title 29, §4306 (a) or (b) (State recognized veterans' organization, volunteer fire company or volunteer ambulance and rescue company) click here for instructions.
Notaries public are appointed for an initial term of two years. Reappointments can be for a term of either two years or four years. Non-refundable application fees of $60 for a two year term or $90 for a four year term must be paid at the time of application. You may pay by check or money order made payable to the State of Delaware . In addition, we also accept electronic checks as well as Visa, MasterCard and Discover credit cards. If you wish to pay by electronic check or one of these credit cards, please fill out and include the Electronic Check/Credit Card Authorization Form with your application.
To apply, please complete the Notary Public Application and forward to the Secretary of State, Notary Public Section, 401 Federal Street, Suite 4 , Dover , DE , 19901 along with your payment. Notaries may apply for reappointment no sooner than 2 months prior to expiration of their current term.
PLEASE ALLOW 4 WEEKS FOR PROCESSING OF APPLICATION
QUESTIONS?
For additional information, contact notary@delaware.gov by email or by telephone at 302/739-4111.
