To become a notary public in Nebraska, follow these steps:

1. Meet Eligibility Requirements:
   • Be at least 19 years old.
   • Be a resident of Nebraska or a resident of a bordering state with evidence of Nebraska employment.
   • Be a U.S. citizen or qualified alien.
   • Be able to read and write English.
   • Have no felony or fraud-related convictions within the past five years

2. Pass the Nebraska Notary Exam:
   • Study the Nebraska Notary Statutes, Rules, and Regulations.
   • Pass the exam with a score of at least 85%. You can retake the exam up to three times if needed

3. Purchase a $15,000 Surety Bond:
   • Nebraska requires a four-year $15,000 notary bond to protect the public.
   • The bond must be executed by an incorporated surety company and filed with the Secretary of State

4. Complete and Submit Your Application:
   • Fill out the Application for Notary Commission and U.S. Citizenship Attestation Form.
   • Take the oath of office in front of a Nebraska notary (signature on the application must be notarized).
   • Submit your application, proof of bond, $30 filing fee, and supporting documents to the Nebraska Secretary of State.
   • Non-residents must also submit evidence of Nebraska employment

5. Receive Your Commission Certificate:
   • After approval (which takes about 10-14 days), download your commission certificate from the Secretary of State’s website

6. Purchase Your Notary Stamp and Supplies:
   • Nebraska law requires a notary stamp with:
     • The words “State of Nebraska”
     • The words “General Notary” or “General Notarial”
     • Your commissioned name
     • Your commission expiration date
   • Notary commissions last four years

Additional notes:

• Training courses are not mandatory, but preparation for the exam is recommended.
• Notaries may also apply to become electronic or online notaries by completing additional training and filing amendments

This process ensures you are legally authorized to perform notarizations anywhere in Nebraska