Is there an exam to become a Rhode Island notary?

Yes, the free open-book Notary Knowledge Assessment, requiring 80% to pass, for new applicants. You can retake it after reviewing the manual.

Do you need a bond to be a Rhode Island notary?

No. Rhode Island does not require a surety bond. Errors and omissions insurance is optional but recommended for your protection.

How long does a Rhode Island notary commission last?

Four years. A courtesy renewal notice is mailed about two months before expiration, and there is a 30-day grace period after it.

What happens if your commission lapses in Rhode Island?

You may notarize for up to 30 days after expiration while renewing. File more than 30 days late and you are treated as a new applicant.

Rhode Island Notary Public 2026: The Knowledge Assessment, Cost & How to Apply

This guide is educational and informational, not legal advice. Rhode Island notary rules are set in RIGL Chapter 42-30.1 and can change, so confirm the details with the Rhode Island Department of State before you apply. We link to official resources; we never sell or submit applications.

Quick answer: To become a notary in Rhode Island you must be 18 and live or work in the state. There is no bond, but you must pass the open-book Notary Knowledge Assessment at 80%. You sign a notarized oath, then mail the application with an $80 fee, and the Governor signs your commission. The term is four years, and you may charge up to $25 per act. Use the checklist below to total your cost.

Open the cost checklist ↓

What does it cost to become a notary in Rhode Island?

Becoming a Rhode Island notary usually costs $95 to $115. The fixed state charge is the $80 application fee, which is on the higher side but includes no bond and no exam fee, since the assessment is free. The rest is a small charge to notarize your oath, your required stamp, and an optional journal. Tick what applies and the checklist totals it live.

How do you become a notary in Rhode Island?

You become a Rhode Island notary by passing the assessment first, then filing one application. The order is:

Study and pass the assessment. Review the Notary Public Manual and Standards of Conduct, then take the free online Notary Knowledge Assessment and score at least 80%.
Complete the application form. Fill out the notary application after passing, entering your Rhode Island residential or business address.
Notarize your oath of office. Sign the oath section before a Rhode Island notary; the Department of State has notaries available if you hand-deliver.
Mail it with the $80 fee. Send the original application and fee to the Department of State in Providence; email and fax are not accepted.
Get your commission and stamp. Processing takes three to five business days; once your Governor-signed commission arrives, buy a compliant ink stamp before notarizing.

Do you have to pass an exam to become a Rhode Island notary?

Yes, new applicants must pass the Notary Knowledge Assessment with a score of at least 80%, an open-book test the Department of State offers free on its website. You study the Notary Public Manual and Standards of Conduct, then complete the assessment online before filling out the application. If you score below 80%, you are encouraged to review the manual and retake it, since there is no limit that blocks a second attempt. Renewing notaries are not required to retake the assessment but should review any changes to the law.

How much can a Rhode Island notary charge?

Rhode Island lets a notary charge up to $25 per notarial act, one of the highest caps in the country, and the same $25 maximum applies to remote online notarizations. Travel fees are allowed by separate agreement with the signer. This high ceiling is part of what makes a Rhode Island commission appealing for paid work, since many states cap traditional acts at $5 or $10. The commission expiration date must appear on every notarial certificate you complete.

What are the requirements to become a Rhode Island notary?

The Rhode Island requirements combine the assessment with simple eligibility and no bond. You must be at least 18, a U.S. citizen or permanent legal resident, able to read and write English, and have a Rhode Island residential or business address, with no disqualifying convictions under RIGL 42-30.1-16. Attorneys and CPAs in good standing are exempt from the residency requirement. An inked stamp showing your name, "Notary Public," "State of Rhode Island," and your expiration date is required, while a journal is strongly recommended rather than mandatory.

How do you renew or notarize online in Rhode Island?

You renew by reapplying with a notarized oath and the $80 fee, and the Department of State mails a courtesy notice about two months before expiration; submitting before the expiration date keeps your same month and day. Rhode Island grants a 30-day grace period, so you may keep notarizing for up to 30 days after expiration while a renewal is pending, but a notary who files more than 30 days late is treated as a new applicant. For remote online notarization, register with the Department of State and use an approved provider.

Becoming a Rhode Island notary: frequently asked questions

Is there an exam to become a Rhode Island notary?: Yes, the free open-book Notary Knowledge Assessment, requiring 80% to pass, for new applicants. You can retake it after reviewing the manual.
Do you need a bond to be a Rhode Island notary?: No. Rhode Island does not require a surety bond. Errors and omissions insurance is optional but recommended for your protection.
How much can a Rhode Island notary charge?: Up to $25 per notarial act, one of the highest caps anywhere, including remote acts. Travel fees are allowed by separate agreement.
How long does a Rhode Island notary commission last?: Four years. A courtesy renewal notice is mailed about two months before expiration, and there is a 30-day grace period after it.
What happens if your commission lapses in Rhode Island?: You may notarize for up to 30 days after expiration while renewing. File more than 30 days late and you are treated as a new applicant.

Published June 13, 2026 by the Trámites Notariales US editorial team. Sources: Rhode Island Department of State, Notary Public Division and the Notary Public Manual; Rhode Island General Laws Chapter 42-30.1. Confirm current fees and steps with the Rhode Island Department of State before applying.