Frequently Asked Questions

You are able to take the online notary test a total of three times. If you fail test one you can take test two at any time. Applicants that fail the first two tests will need to wait 30 days before taking test number three. If you fail the test three times you will not be eligible to become a notary in Nebraska.

I was recently married. How do I change my name on my notary commission?

At this point you have two choices:
1. It is a State of Nebraska Statute that you keep using your notary exactly as you have been. If you choose that option, you can then change the name on your notary commission at renewal time.
2. We can change your name on your notary commission. At a minimum, the State Fee, bond fee and stamp would all be required.

Are notary journals now required in the State of Nebraska?

Notary journals are highly recommend but not required under Nebraska Notary law.

Does my expiration date have to be included on my notary seal?

YES, LB 382 was approved by the Governor on May 16, 2007. LB 382 provides that all notaries commissioned after August 31, 2007 must use an ink stamp engraved with the following:

I was wondering what type of test is required to become a notary and who is required to take it?

The test is a 20 question open booklet exam. It consists of 10 true/false and 10 multiple choice questions. You can miss up to 3 questions. All new notary applicants must take the test along with any current notary who has let their notary commission expire. The test is available free online to take any time.

My notary commission expired last week, can I still renew?

The State of Nebraska must receive your properly filled out renewal paperwork no later than 5:00 p.m. on the day your notary expires. No Exceptions. If your notary has expired we are glad to send out the paperwork to get you re-started. The price is the same for new or renewal, but you will now need to take the notary test.

More Frequently Asked Questions

I understand I now need to turn in my change of address if I move during my 4-year term.

Yes, you have 45 days to turn in your change of home address. This will also make sure you renewal paperwork and updates make it to you.

I recently changed jobs and my previous employer kept my notary seal. Do I need to start over?

No, you simply need to order a new stamp. While your employer may have paid for your notary bond and state fee, these items cannot be cancelled and your notary will be in effect for your full four-year term.

Can you clarify which relatives I can and can’t notarize for?

Notaries are prohibited for notarizing for:
Ancestors: Parents and grandparents
Descendents: Children and grandchildren
Spouse: Husband or wife
Siblings: Brothers and sisters
The above relationships also include in-law, step, or half relatives.
Notaries may notarize for:
Aunts and uncles
Nieces and nephews
Cousins

What is the Errors and Omissions policy and is it required?

The errors and omissions policy is recommend by the Nebraska Notary Association but it is not required. It will cover you if you notarize something in error or if someone claims you did. The bond you must purchase will cover the State of Nebraska but does not give you any personal protection.

How much can I charge for notarizing a document?

For taking affidavits and seal: $2.00

For administering oath & affirmation: $5.00

For each certificate and seal: $5.00
For taking acknowledgement of deed or other Instrument: $5.00
For each protest: $1.00
For recording each protest: $2.00
For each notice of protest: $2.00
For each mile traveled in serving notice, mileage at the rate provided in section 81-1176.

So what about notary signing agents, I hear they charge $75.00?

The fees above are what can be charged for notarizing a document. If you are being paid more, you are risking losing your Nebraska Notary commission. If someone is receiving $75.00, a portion of that money must be for services other than notarizing.