Colorado Notary Frequently Asked Questions
Are you a new notary public? This is a list of our most frequently asked questions about becoming a notary and what supplies you will need in the state of Colorado.
Colorado Notary Public: a person authorized to perform certain legal formalities such as acknowledgements, oaths, affirmations, depositions, affidavits, verification and copy certification. A notary can also be referred to as a signing agent. The Notary Handbook is a great reference for Colorado signing agents.
See our How to Become a Notary Infographic for an easy breakdown of the steps you will need to take.
You must apply online and attach scanned copies of an affirmation form that has been signed and notarized, both sides of an acceptable form of identification, a notary training certificate, a notary exam certificate and both sides of your permanent resident card or visa if you are not a U.S. citizen. There will be a filing fee of $10.
Must be age 18 or older
Must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident alien
Must be a resident of Colorado
Must be able to read and write in English
Must not have been convicted of a felony
Must not have been convicted of a misdemeanor in the last five years involving dishonesty
Must not have any notary commissions previously revoked
You can notarize for any member of the public who makes a sensible request and meets all the requirements for notarization.For Example: Must have proof of identity and be physically present.
First time notaries and those who have had an expired commission, for over 30 days, must complete a notary training course and pass the exam that is provided by the Office of the Secretary of State. You may take a course through an approved vendor or online for a fee. Otherwise a free class is offered by the Office of the Secretary of State, but a pre-registration is required and there is limited availability. For more information, call 303-894-2200 and press 4.
A bond is not mandatory in Colorado. Errors and Omissions insurance (E&O) is NOT required, but it is recommended.
Application filing fee is $10
Prices of the training course can vary based on location
Prices on Notary Supplies may vary (Notary seal stamps and embossers)
Notary Rubber or Stamp
A pre-inked or self-inking stamp is required to officiate all notarization. Stamp must be a rectangle with an outline or border around the following information: Notary Name, Notary Public, State of Colorado, Notary ID Number and Commission Expiration Date.
Notary Records Journal
It is mandatory to maintain a bound journal for your own protection because it keeps your notarization organized and makes it harder for pages to be misplaced or removed.
Although not a requirement, if you believe it is helpful for your business to have these, then it is a good idea. If you work for a company as a notary singing agent, then discuss with them if this would be necessary.
Yes, being a notary grants you certain permissions and responsibilities and there is the need for insurance which was noted earlier.
Risk should be assessed on a case by case basis, but being a notary signing agent comes with the responsibility of fully understanding the risks involved. Having E&O Insurance can potentially reduce your exposure to risk.
In Colorado a notary's commission is valid for four years.