Become a Notary Public in Iowa
Start a notary business in Iowa. Commission term: 3 years. Startup costs: $255 - $1,700
Important Notices
Unauthorized
Notarizing documents without a valid commission is a crime that can result in fines and imprisonment.
Interest
Never notarize a document in which you have a personal or financial interest.
Identity
You must properly identify signers. Notarizing for someone you cannot identify exposes you to liability.
Fees
Iowa sets maximum fees notaries can charge. Exceeding these limits is illegal.
Important Notices
| Item | Low | High |
|---|---|---|
| Application Fee State notary application fee | $34 | $34 |
| Surety Bond No bond required | $0 | $0 |
| Notary Seal/Stamp Official notary seal meeting state specifications | $26 | $26 |
| Notary Journal Record book for notarial acts | $21 | $21 |
| Education Course Required or recommended training course | $85 | $85 |
| E&O Insurance Errors and omissions insurance (recommended) | $85 | $85 |
| Business License If operating as a notary business | $64 | $64 |
| Marketing Website, business cards, directory listings | $170 | $170 |
| Total | $485 | $485 |
Notary Commission & Requirements
Age Requirement
Must be at least 18 years old.
Iowa Secretary of State
Iowa Residency
Must be a legal resident of Iowa or have principal place of business in the state.
Iowa Secretary of State
Background Check
Must pass criminal background check. Certain convictions may disqualify applicants.
Iowa Secretary of State
Application & Fee
Submit notary application with required fee to Iowa Secretary of State.
Iowa Secretary of State
Surety Bond
No bond required
N/A
Notary Seal/Stamp
Must obtain official notary seal meeting state specifications.
Vendor
Oath of Office
Must take and file oath of office before performing notarial acts.
Iowa County Clerk
Notary Journal
Record book for documenting all notarial acts performed.
Vendor
Notary Commission & Requirements
Des Moines
Notary services in Des Moines, IA
Cedar Rapids
Notary services in Cedar Rapids, IA
Davenport
Notary services in Davenport, IA
Sioux City
Notary services in Sioux City, IA
Iowa City
Notary services in Iowa City, IA
Notary Services Costs in Other States
View all 50 statesIowa Notary Tips
Consider becoming a Notary Signing Agent for loan document closings (higher income)
Invest in E&O insurance even if not required - it protects your personal assets
Join the National Notary Association for resources and credibility
Offer mobile notary services to increase your customer base
Keep meticulous records in your notary journal for legal protection
Iowa Notary Tips
Check Eligibility
Verify you meet Iowa requirements: 18+ years old, state resident, no disqualifying criminal history.
Complete Education
Take any required or recommended notary education course. Some states mandate training.
Submit Application
Complete notary application and submit to Iowa Secretary of State with required fee.
Pass Background Check
Complete required background check process.
Take Oath of Office
After commission approval, take oath of office and file with county clerk.
Purchase Supplies
Obtain official notary seal/stamp and journal meeting state specifications.
Start Notarizing
Begin performing notarial acts. Consider mobile notary or loan signing specialization.