NOTARY PUBLIC

Division of Public Records

(201) 369-3470 (Option 5)

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS

Following is a play-script that describes the process and provides instructions for applying and obtaining both new and renewed Notary Public commissions (appointments).

1. Applicant:

	Obtains a Notary application form from the Office of the Clerk or Office of the State Treasurer. Download the Application Form in PDF Format **Under normal operating conditions, the State sends out a renewal package three months prior to the commission expiration date. If renewal packages are not received in this time frame, applicants are responsible for requesting packages via one of the alternatives listed above.
	Completes the application form in strict accordance with the instructions listed on the form.
	As part of completing the form, obtains endorsement of a member of the Legislature.
	Sends the completed/endorsed form with a check for the filing fee of $25.00 made payable to: "Treasurer, State of New Jersey" to: Notary Public Section PO Box 452 Trenton, N.J. 08625
	Non-resident applicants must also file an affidavit with the Treasurer setting forth their residence and address of the office or place of employment in New Jersey. The affidavit should be submitted with the application form to the Notary Section.

2. Notary Public and Fee Section:

	Reviews the application form for completeness and fee.
	Accepts it and returns a Notary Public Commission Certificate and Oath Qualification Certificate to the applicant; or rejects it and returns the form with rejection notice to applicant for correction and resubmission.

3. Applicant:

Takes the Commission Certificate and Oath Qualification Certificate to the Office of the Clerk (Cashier Division) within three (3) months of the date listed on the commission certificate.**Remember that failure to meet the 3-month time limit will result in the cancellation of the appointment, and the filing fee will be non-refundable.

4. Office of the Hudson County Clerk:

	Administers an oath to the applicant.  NO APPOINTMENT IS NEEDED. Come in during regular operating hours to be sworn in.
	Collects a $15.00 filing fee per the Clerk's statutory fee schedule.
	Returns the Qualification Certificate to the Notary Section, thereby completing the application process. **The Notary Public Section maintains a computer database of all Notary commissions, and will enter the "sworn date" from the Qualification Certificate to ensure that the public record reflects the official date of the Notary's appointment.

BACKGROUND ON OFFICE OF NOTARY PUBLIC

A Notary Public is a public officer who is empowered to

 

Administer oaths/affirmations

Take acknowledgments

Execute jurats:

Take proofs of deeds; and

:Execute protests for non-payment or non-acceptance

A Notary Public who is duly commissioned and qualified is authorized to perform these services throughout the State of New Jersey.