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August 18, 2008: How do I apply to become a notary public? This is just one of the many questions received each day in the Office of the Westchester County Clerk.  A notary public is a state appointed and commissioned official who administers oaths and serves as an impartial witness when important documents such as deeds, mortgages and powers of attorney are signed. “To become a notary public, there are several requirements including passing the state administered licensing exam,” said County Clerk Timothy C. Idoni, whose office maintains the records of all notaries public commissioned in Westchester County.

     The Notary Public Exam is a walk-in examination given regularly throughout New York State. To take the exam you must present a government issued photo identification card and pay the exam fee of $15.00.  The next scheduled exam in Westchester will be administered on Friday, September 26^th on the campus of Westchester Community College, 75 Grasslands Road, Classroom Building, Room C200 at 1:30 p.m. Applicants are encouraged to arrive early as seating is limited and fills up quickly.

     In addition to passing the exam, an applicant seeking a four year Notary Public commission from the New York State Secretary of State must be 18 years or older, a citizen of the United States and either a resident or have an office or place of business in New York State.  Applicants must submit to the Division of Licensing Services an original application including an oath of office, a $60 application fee and their "pass slip" confirming they have passed the notary public examination. To obtain an application, fax a request to the Department of State at (518)473-6648 or call (212)417-5747.

     “If you are interested in learning more about becoming a notary public, visit our website at www.westchesterclerk.com/LegalDivision_Notaries.htm  where you will find answers to many questions and can download the most current Notary Public License Law Booklet to help you to study for the exam,” shared County Clerk Idoni.  A copy of the booklet can also be obtained free of charge by coming to our office located at 110 Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Blvd., Room 330, White Plains, New York, 10601.  The office is open Monday through Friday, from 8:00 a.m. until 5:45 p.m., excluding legal holidays, and can be reached by calling (914)995-3071.

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