How to become a notary in Delaware: the official requirements
Who can apply, the training, bond and term, and the steps, from the Delaware Secretary of State's own published requirements.
To become a notary public in Delaware: Who can apply: At least 18; able to read and write English; of good character and reputation (an unrestored felony conviction, or a crime involving dishonesty or moral turpitude, makes you ineligible); a reasonable need for a commission; a U.S. citizen or permanent legal resident with a Delaware street address, or an office or place of employment in Delaware open on weekdays to accept service of process. Training: No training is currently required to become a notary. Bond: No bond is required. Commission term: A new traditional commission is for two years; renewals can be for two or four years. Commissions are issued by the Delaware Secretary of State.
Notary requirements in Delaware
| Requirement | Delaware |
|---|---|
| Who can apply | At least 18; able to read and write English; of good character and reputation (an unrestored felony conviction, or a crime involving dishonesty or moral turpitude, makes you ineligible); a reasonable need for a commission; a U.S. citizen or permanent legal resident with a Delaware street address, or an office or place of employment in Delaware open on weekdays to accept service of process. |
| Training | No training is currently required to become a notary. |
| Exam | Not stated in the official source we read. Check with the Delaware Secretary of State. |
| Bond | No bond is required. |
| Commission term | A new traditional commission is for two years; renewals can be for two or four years. |
| State fee | A $60 non-refundable application fee for a new traditional commission. |
| Background check | Any prior conviction requires a certified background check from the jurisdiction where it occurred. |
| Oath and filing | When you receive your commission certificate, sign and take the oath of office before a notary public and return a copy to the Notary Public Section. |
Where the official source we read does not state something, the table says so rather than guessing.
How to apply in Delaware
- Create a notary profile and submit the application online.
- Pay the $60 non-refundable application fee.
- When you receive your commission certificate by email, sign and take the oath of office before a notary public and return a copy.
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Questions people ask
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How this page is built
Every requirement on this page comes from the Delaware Secretary of State's own published material, read on the dates shown. Requirements and fees change; the authority's current instructions govern.
- Not legal advice.
- Fees charged by bonding agencies, course providers and fingerprint vendors are not included.
- Delaware Notary Public, How to Apply For a Notary Commission, official source, read Nov 5, 2026.
- Delaware Notary Public, Frequently Asked Questions, official source, read Nov 5, 2026.
- Delaware Notary Public, Fee Information, official source, read Nov 5, 2026.