• Notary republics verify the identity of document signers.signature image by Allyson Ricketts from Fotolia.com
  
  A notary public is authorized to administer oaths as well as take proof of execution and acknowledgements of documents. Acknowledgement means the notary public can verify the identity of a person who signs a document and took reasonable steps to verify that person's identity. Notaries administer most types of oaths, including oaths of office and oaths of testimony. Requirements vary from state to state, but basic qualifications to become a notary are true nationwide.
  
  

Age and Employment

• A notary public must be at least 18 years of age. Some states, such as Georgia, require a notary public to be regularly employed or carry on a business or profession in their residing county.
  
  

Residency

• A notary public is usually required to be a U.S. citizen, and must be a resident of the county in which they wish to reside as a notary public. Some areas require applicants to be registered voters in the county for which they are commissioned. Arizona requires applicants to claim Arizona residency as their primary residence for tax purposes. This is true for other states as well, although some allow applicants to have residency in a neighboring state.
  
  

Stature

• A notary public must be of good moral standing with the state. In some states, applicants who have committed a felony are not considered for the position; in other states, convicted felons must provide copies of court documents that reflect the original charge and the restoration of civil rights. Some misdemeanors, such as those involving dishonesty, may prohibit an applicant from becoming a notary public. Many states disqualify notaries who have had their past commission or professional licenses revoked within a certain number of years of becoming a notary.
  
  

Ability

• Applicants must be capable of completing the duties a notary public is responsible for, including the ability to read and write in the English language. They must be able to take reasonable steps in verifying a person's identity (generally by checking an identification card or document), be able to keep and protect a journal of notarial services rendered and comply with any investigations initiated by the secretary of state or attorney general.
  
  

Bond

• Notaries public must be able to acquire a surety or freehold bond. The value of these bonds can vary from state to state, or even from county to county. Bonds are required as insurance policies meant to protect the general public in the event of misconduct on the part of the notary. The notary applicant generally cannot be his own freeholder bond.
  
  

Education

• Some states, such as California, require coursework approved by the secretary of state to be taken and must pass a written test. Other states, such as Indiana, offer optional online training courses to familiarize the applicant with notarial services.