How to book the notary exam

New York outside New York City

The Department of State publishes walk-in exam dates at sites across the state, including Albany, Binghamton, Buffalo, Carmel, Franklin Square, Hauppauge, Plattsburgh, Pomona, Rochester, Sanborn, Syracuse and Utica. No pre-registration is needed, and seats go to whoever arrives first.

Dates can change, so check the current schedule before you travel. Arrive at least 15 minutes early, because late arrivals aren’t let in.

New York City

1. Pick a date from the current New York City schedule. The site is 123 William Street, 2nd floor.
2. Email exams@dos.ny.gov with the subject line “Schedule Notary Public Exam.”
3. Include your full name, address, the exam type (Notary Public) and the dates you want.
4. Wait for an emailed confirmation. If your date is full, you’ll get the next one available.
5. Only go if you have a confirmation. Unscheduled walk-ins are turned away.

California

You first complete an approved 6-hour course, or a 3-hour refresher if you’re renewing on time. Then you register for the exam online with CPS HR Consulting, which runs it for the Secretary of State.

On exam day bring a current photo ID, your completed application, a 2x2 color passport photo, your course certificate, your registration confirmation and the $40 fee.

Other states

• Pennsylvania: after the Department of State approves your application, you get an email explaining how to test with Pearson VUE.
• North Carolina: the exam comes with your 6-hour course, at a community college or other approved provider.
• Louisiana: register at least 30 days before the exam, after your application is approved and you’ve done the pre-assessment.
• Hawaii: once approved, you book through the Notary Exam Scheduler in your online account.