How to Become a Notary in New York
Notary Publics are appointed by the state of New York as public officers with responsibility for safeguarding public documents and may perform a range of duties in connection with the transfer and recording of instruments, including filing, advertising, granting oaths or affirmations, administering oaths or affirmations to statutory declarations and affidavits, furnishing certified copies of specific tools, permitting to certain facts recorded under section 53-135.
New York Training
To become a Notary Public, you must pass an interview conducted by the Secretary of State's office. You will be required to demonstrate your understanding of the responsibilities and your ability to fulfill those responsibilities. You will be required to demonstrate a knowledge of the law and the trustworthiness, purity, and integrity you need to uphold, for example, your oath or affirmation to give real evidence and to record any recorded instrument accurately. You must show that you have reason to believe that you comply with all laws and the duties of notaries. You will be required to swear on the Bible or other holy book that you understand your responsibilities. The Secretary of State's office will send notice of your Interview within two business days after it is scheduled.
Take the Notary Exam
Once you have passed the examination and completed your registration, you will receive your Certificate of Authority (COA). You must keep that certificate in good condition to perform your duties. The Secretary of State's website provides instructions on completing and filing the proper paperwork with New York State, presenting the COA at the time of appointment, and renewing every five years (renewals every two years after that).
Getting clients
You can start making money by traveling to local businesses to get hired on retainer or paid per notarization. The best way to start getting such work is to contact your provincial secretary of state's office and ask for a list of local businesses that use notary services.
Becoming a Notary Public is quite a commitment; you must have a high trust level and be trustworthy and ethical. You must also understand that the responsibility of notaries extends far beyond simply signing documents to prove their authenticity. Each record, each piece of paper you affix your Seal to, is considered, in effect, a representation of your character as a person.