Qualifications for a Commission

List of Qualifications

To be a notary public in Oregon, you must meet certain qualifications at the time of application:

• 18 years of age or older.
• Resident of Oregon or have a place of employment or practice in this state.
• Able to read and write English.
• Never had a notary public commission revoked during the 10-year period preceding the application date.
• Completed a notary training course within the last 6 months.
• All notaries, including current notaries, must complete the Notary Basics course before applying for a commission. You can choose a training option from the resources listed below.
• Never convicted of a felony or crime involving fraud, dishonesty or deceit during the 10-year period preceding the application date.
• Passed the Secretary of State’s Notary Public examination.
• Not have been convicted of:
• Acting as or otherwise impersonating a notary public as described in ORS 194.990;
• Obstructing governmental or judicial administration under ORS 162.235 (1)(b); or
• Engaging in the unlawful practice of law as described in ORS 9.160.
• Not have been found by a court to have:
• Practiced law without a license in a suit under ORS 9.166; or
• Engaged in an unlawful trade practice described in ORS 646.608 (1)(vvv).