How to Become a Notary Public in Delaware?
Becoming a notary public in Delaware requires meeting state eligibility criteria (being at least 18 years old, a Delaware resident or non-resident regularly employed in the state, and possessing good moral character), submitting an electronic application through the Delaware Department of State's Notary Public Portal, paying state licensing fees, and taking the oath of office upon appointment by the Governor. Notaries public in Delaware serve as trusted state officers who authenticate legal transactions, witness document executions, and administer oaths across corporate filings, banking deeds, and personal affidavits.
Delaware Notary Eligibility and Application Process
Under Title 29, Chapter 43 of the Delaware Code, notary commissions are issued by the Governor and administered by the Delaware Secretary of State. Applicants must be at least 18 years old, be able to read and write the English language, and have no felony convictions involving fraud or perjury. Applicants can choose between a standard 2-year commission ($60 fee) or a 4-year commission ($110 fee).
The entire application workflow is managed online through the official Delaware Notary Portal. First-time applicants must create a state portal account, complete the personal profile, and have their application electronically endorsed by a qualified employer or professional sponsor. Delaware does not require a formal written examination or mandatory educational course for traditional in-person notaries, but applicants are expected to thoroughly read and follow the Delaware Notary Public Handbook.
The table below outlines the timeline, statutory fees, and key requirements for a Delaware notary commission.
| Application Step | Required Action | Governing Agency | Cost / State Fee | Estimated Turnaround Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Eligibility Verification | Verify age (18+), residency/employment, clean record | Delaware Department of State | Free | Immediate |
| Online Portal Application | Submit electronic application and sponsor endorsement | Delaware Notary Public Portal | $60 (2-Yr) or $110 (4-Yr) | 1 to 2 Weeks |
| Oath of Office Execution | Take official oath of office and sign certificate | Local Delaware Notary / Recorder of Deeds | Free to $5 | Within 30 Days of Approval |
| Official Seal Purchase | Order engraved black-ink rubber stamp seal | Authorized Notary Supply Vendor | $25 to $45 | 3 to 5 Business Days |
| Journal Acquisition | Acquire permanent bound chronological journal | Stationery / Office Supply Vendor | $15 to $30 | Immediate |
| Optional E&O Insurance | Purchase Errors & Omissions liability coverage | Commercial Surety Provider | $40 to $100 (Optional) | Instant Coverage |
Delaware does not require a notary surety bond; the applicant's signature and sworn oath represent their legal obligation.
Notarial Duties, Official Seals, and Corporate Practice
Delaware holds unique prominence as the corporate capital of the United States, with over 65% of Fortune 500 companies incorporated in the state. Consequently, Delaware notaries frequently execute high-stakes corporate resolutions, merger documents, entity formations, and international apostille verifications. Notaries must ensure signers appear in person, verify government photo IDs, and confirm signers are acting under free will without duress.
Under Delaware law, the official notary seal must be a rubber stamp with black ink containing the words 'Notary Public', 'State of Delaware', the notary's name exactly as commissioned, and the commission expiration date. Delaware statutory fees allow notaries to charge up to $5.00 for basic notarial acts, while reasonable mobile travel fees may be negotiated with clients in advance.
The table below outlines standard notarial acts and requirements under Title 29 of the Delaware Code.
| Notarial Act | Legal Definition | Maximum State Allowed Fee | Required Seal & Record Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| Acknowledgment | Signer affirms they executed document voluntarily | $5.00 per signature | Rubber stamp seal + journal entry |
| Verification on Oath (Jurat) | Signer swears to the truthfulness of written statements | $5.00 per signature | Administer verbal oath; apply stamp seal |
| Signature Witnessing | Notary personally observes the signing of document | $5.00 per signature | Verify ID; witness signature in real time |
| Copy Certification | Notary certifies a complete and accurate photocopy | $5.00 per document | Verify original; stamp certification wording |
| Mobile Travel Surcharge | Travel to residences, corporate offices, or hospitals | Reasonable fee agreed upon prior | Itemize travel charge in notary journal |
Delaware also permits Electronic and Remote Online Notarization (RON) through state-approved electronic platforms.
How to Become a Delaware Notary in 4 Steps
Follow this official state roadmap to earn your Delaware notary public commission.
Create an Account on the Delaware Notary Portal
Visit the Delaware Secretary of State website and register an electronic account on the Delaware Notary Management System.
Complete the Online Application and Select Commission Term
Fill out personal details, secure employer endorsement, select a 2-year ($60) or 4-year ($110) term, and pay fees online.
Take the Oath of Office and Submit Certificate
Once approved by the Governor, print your commission, take the oath of office before an active notary, and upload the signed oath.
Purchase Your Official Delaware Notary Stamp and Journal
Order an approved black-ink rubber stamp seal and permanent bound journal to record all notarial acts.
Frequently Asked Questions (7 Questions Answered)
Q1: How much does it cost to become a notary in Delaware?
Costs total between $100 and $180, which includes the state application fee ($60 for 2 years or $110 for 4 years) plus $40 to $70 for stamp supplies.
Q2: How long is a Delaware notary commission good for?
Applicants can choose either a 2-year commission ($60) or a 4-year commission ($110) upon application.
Q3: Can non-residents become notaries in Delaware?
Yes; individuals who reside outside Delaware but maintain regular employment or business within Delaware are eligible to apply.
Q4: Is there a test to become a Delaware notary?
No; Delaware does not require a written examination for traditional notaries, though applicants must study the state notary handbook.
Q5: Does Delaware require a notary bond?
No; Delaware is one of several states that do not require notaries to post a commercial surety bond.
Q6: How much can a Delaware notary charge per signature?
Delaware statutes allow notaries to charge up to $5.00 per notarial signature act, plus mutually agreed-upon mobile travel fees.
Q7: Can a Delaware notary notarize documents from other states?
Yes, provided the physical notarial act and signing take place within the geographic borders of the State of Delaware.
Final Thoughts & Key Takeaways
In conclusion, understanding how to become a notary public in delaware? provides essential clarity, practical strategies, and actionable advice. By incorporating these foundational insights, adhering to verified safety guidelines, and following structured best practices, you ensure reliable, long-term outcomes while preventing common mistakes. Stay informed, consult certified professionals when needed, and maintain consistent quality care.