How to Become a Notary Public in Massachusetts: Step-by-Step Guide for 2025

Becoming a Notary Public in Massachusetts is a rewarding way to serve your community while opening the door to flexible work opportunities in legal, real estate, financial, and public sectors. Whether you're looking to boost your career or start a small business offering notarial services, this guide will walk you through every step of the process, including requirements, application tips, and how to succeed once commissioned.



What is a Notary Public in Massachusetts?

A Notary Public in Massachusetts is a public officer appointed by the Governor with the power to witness the signing of important documents, administer oaths, take affidavits, and deter fraud. Notaries are critical in real estate closings, legal transactions, affidavits, apostille services, and various official certifications.



Who Can Become a Notary in Massachusetts?

To qualify, you must:

Be at least 18 years old

Be a legal resident of Massachusetts or have a regular place of employment in the state

Have no felony convictions

Be able to read and write English




Step-by-Step Guide to Becoming a Notary Public in Massachusetts

Step 1: Obtain a Notary Public Application

You can download the application from the Massachusetts Secretary of the Commonwealth’s website or request one by mail.

Step 2: Complete the Application

Fill out your personal information, employment details, and a statement of why you want to be a notary. You will also need to get four character references (non-relatives) who have known you for at least one year.

Step 3: Sign and Notarize the Application

Ironically, your application needs to be notarized by a current Massachusetts Notary Public. This ensures that the signature is legitimate and properly witnessed.

Step 4: Submit the Application to the Secretary of the Commonwealth

Mail the completed and notarized application to:

Public Records Division
Secretary of the Commonwealth
One Ashburton Place, Room 1719
Boston, MA 02108

Processing typically takes 4–6 weeks.

Step 5: Await Appointment and Commission

Once approved, the Governor will appoint you. You will receive instructions by mail to appear at your local court to be sworn in.

Step 6: Get Sworn In

Visit the county courthouse as directed to take the oath of office and pay a small fee (usually $60). You’ll receive your commission certificate and can officially begin your duties.



Optional but Recommended: Purchase Notary Supplies

Though Massachusetts does not require notaries to use a journal or seal, it's highly recommended to:

Buy a Massachusetts Notary Public Seal/Stamp

Maintain a Notary Journal to protect yourself legally

Get E&O Insurance to cover any liability




How Long is the Commission Valid?

A Massachusetts Notary commission is valid for 7 years. You’ll receive a renewal notice before your term expires.



What Can a Notary Do in Massachusetts?

Massachusetts Notaries can:

Acknowledge signatures

Administer oaths and affirmations

Issue protests of negotiable instruments

Witness and attest signatures

Perform jurats

Provide apostille coordination (with experience)


Note: Massachusetts law prohibits notaries from offering legal advice unless they are licensed attorneys.



Opportunities for Notaries in Massachusetts

After getting commissioned, consider joining professional networks or expanding your services to include:

Mobile Notary Services

Apostille Facilitation

Loan Signing Agent Work

Real Estate Document Witnessing

Translation and Certification of Foreign Documents


You can also work independently, join a law office, or contract with platforms that need mobile notaries.



Final Thoughts: Launching Your Notary Career in Massachusetts

Becoming a Notary Public in Massachusetts is more than just a credential—it’s a stepping stone to entrepreneurship and community service. Whether you want to notarize locally in Boston, Worcester, or Springfield or offer mobile services across counties, the demand for reliable, knowledgeable notaries continues to grow.

Take the first step today—and soon you’ll be joining a network of respected professionals across the state.



Looking for Notary Mentorship or Training?

At Boston Notary Service, we help new and aspiring notaries get started the right way. Contact us for training, supplies, or questions about the notarial profession in Massachusetts.

Email: [email protected]
Call/Text: 617-230-6676
Website: BostonNotaryService.us