How to Become a Notary Public in Rhode Island

Who can apply

• Be at least 18 years old.
• Be a U.S. citizen or permanent legal resident.
• Live in Rhode Island or have a place of work or practice there. RI attorneys and CPAs in good standing are exempt from this rule.
• Be able to read and write English.
• Not be disqualified under RIGL 42-30.1-16.
• Know the powers and duties of a notary.

Step by step

1. Read the Notary Public Manual, RIGL Chapter 42-30.1, and the Standards of Conduct.
2. Attend the free RI Notary Public Training and take the online Notary Knowledge Assessment (the state says you should score at least 80%).
3. Fill out both pages of the Notary Application form and sign in original ink. Copies and digital signatures are not accepted.
4. Take the Oath of Office in person before a Rhode Island notary, who completes the notarial certificate on the form.
5. Pay the $80 non-refundable fee: by mail with a check payable to RI Department of State, or in person at the Business Services Division by cash, credit card, or check.
6. Mail or hand-deliver the application to RI Department of State, Business Services Division/Notary, 148 West River Street, Providence, RI 02904. Email is not accepted.
7. Wait 3 to 5 business days for processing. Your commission certificate is mailed to you.
8. Buy an inked stamp showing your name as commissioned, "Notary Public," and "Rhode Island."

Official application →

Training and exam

Training: Free training offered by the RI Department of State (about 2 hours per an attendee quote on the training page). The state says applicants should attend; it is not stated as mandatory.

Exam: Online Notary Knowledge Assessment linked by the state; you should score at least 80%. Worded as a recommended step, not a stated requirement.

What it costs in Rhode Island

Fixed amounts are set by the state. Items marked “your quote” are priced by private sellers, so enter what you’re quoted.

How long it takes

The Department of State says completed applications are processed within 3 to 5 business days of receipt, and your commission certificate is mailed to you.

What other sites get wrong about Rhode Island

After you're commissioned

Renewal: Submit the same paper application with a new oath and the $80 fee before your commission expires; you may keep notarizing for 30 days after expiration.

Remote online notarization: Yes. After you are commissioned, buy a subscription from a state-approved provider and file the Notary Public Information Update Form with your electronic signature and stamp samples (no state fee); wait for email approval before starting.

Good to know in Rhode Island

What you can charge: R.I. Gen. Laws § 42-30.1-20.1 caps fees at $25 per document or notarization, for both in-person and remote acts. You must disclose your fees before performing the notarial act.

Sources

• RI Department of State - Notary Public
• RI Department of State - Apply for a New Commission
• RI Department of State - Renew an Existing Commission
• RI Department of State - Notary Training
• RI Department of State - Become an Electronic/Remote Notary
• Notary Application / Renewal Form (PDF)
• R.I. Gen. Laws § 42-30.1-20.1 - Fees to perform notarial acts