How to become a notary in Kentucky: the official requirements
Who can apply, the training, bond and term, and the steps, from the Kentucky Secretary of State's own published requirements.
To become a notary public in Kentucky: Who can apply: At least 18; a U.S. citizen or permanent resident; living in, or with a place of employment or practice in, the Kentucky county of your commission; able to read and write English; not disqualified under KRS 423.395. Anyone convicted of a felony must submit the order restoring their civil right to hold public office. Bond: A $1,000 surety bond, posted with the county clerk in your county of commission. Commissions are issued by the Kentucky Secretary of State.
Notary requirements in Kentucky
| Requirement | Kentucky |
|---|---|
| Who can apply | At least 18; a U.S. citizen or permanent resident; living in, or with a place of employment or practice in, the Kentucky county of your commission; able to read and write English; not disqualified under KRS 423.395. Anyone convicted of a felony must submit the order restoring their civil right to hold public office. |
| Training | Not stated in the official source we read. Check with the Kentucky Secretary of State. |
| Exam | Not stated in the official source we read. Check with the Kentucky Secretary of State. |
| Bond | A $1,000 surety bond, posted with the county clerk in your county of commission. |
| Commission term | Not stated in the official source we read. Check with the Kentucky Secretary of State. |
| State fee | A $10 application fee, payable to the Kentucky State Treasurer. |
| Background check | If you answer yes to any of the conviction or license questions, include a written statement, the documentation and a criminal background check, and mail the application. |
| Oath and filing | After approval, contact the county clerk in your county of commission to post the bond, take the oath of office and receive your commission certificate. |
Where the official source we read does not state something, the table says so rather than guessing.
How to apply in Kentucky
- Submit the application online, or by mail, with the $10 fee.
- Wait for the approval email from the Secretary of State.
- Contact the county clerk in your county of commission to post the $1,000 bond, take the oath and receive your commission certificate.
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Questions people ask
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How this page is built
Every requirement on this page comes from the Kentucky 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.
- Kentucky Secretary of State, Notary Public Application for Appointment or Reappointment and instructions (12/23), official source, read Nov 5, 2026.