How to get a notary public license.

A Notary Public is a legal professional by the government of India who's allowed to have verification, certification, and attestation performed on documents. That means just about anything from affidavits to agreements – there's a seal of legality attached. If you are a lawyer wanting to become a notary, you have to go through a well-laid procedure of application as per the Notaries Act, 1952 and Under Notaries Rules, 1956.

Step-by-Step Process

1. Check Eligibility

• You must be a practising advocate with at least 10 years of experience (7 years for SC/ST, women, and OBC candidates).
• Retired judicial officers and certain legal officers of government institutions can also apply.

2. Collect Required Documents

• Proof of legal practice (Bar Council enrolment certificate).
• Experience certificate issued by courts or authorities.
• Identity and address proof.
• Application in Form I as per Notaries Rules.

3. Submit Application

• Application is made to the Central Government (for all-India notaries) or State Government (for a specific state).
• Fee: ₹1,000 (Central) or as fixed by respective State Governments.

4. Verification and Enquiry

• The government verifies your professional conduct, standing, and need for a notary in your area.
• Local bar associations may also be consulted.

5. Appointment and Certificate

• If approved, your name is entered into the Register of Notaries.
• You receive a Certificate of Practice, valid for 5 years.
• After expiry, you must apply for renewal.

6. Seal and Register

• You must have an official notary seal.
• Maintain a register of notarial acts, which may be inspected by authorities.

Duties of a Notary

• Attesting affidavits, powers of attorney, and agreements.
• Verifying signatures and certifying documents.
• Administering oaths.
• Authenticating property documents, wills, and business contracts.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. Who can become a notary in India?

A practising advocate with the required years of experience or retired judicial/legal officers.

Q2. Is there an age limit?

No specific maximum age, but you must be in active practice.

Q3. Can a fresh law graduate apply?

No, minimum experience is mandatory.

Q4. What is the tenure of a notary licence?

Five years, renewable.

Q5. Where do I apply?

To the Central or State Government, depending on jurisdiction preference.

Q6. What is Form I?

The prescribed application form under Notaries Rules, 1956.

Q7. Can one apply online?

Some states allow online submission via their law department portals.

Q8. How long does approval take?

Usually 6–12 months, depending on verification.

Q9. Can government employees apply?

Yes, if they served as legal officers or judicial officers.

Q10. What is the official fee charged by a notary to the public?

It is fixed under government rules (e.g., ₹15 for attesting an affidavit, ₹100 for certifying a will).

Q11. Can a notary practise across India?

Only if appointed by the Central Government. State-appointed notaries have jurisdiction within that state.

Q12. Do notaries need an office?

Yes, you must maintain a place of business accessible to the public.

Q13. Can a notary refuse service?

Yes, if the act is illegal or fraudulent.

Q14. Can a notary certify educational certificates?

Yes, provided originals are verified.

Q15. What happens if a notary misuses authority?

License can be suspended or cancelled after inquiry.

Q16. What is the renewal fee?

₹500 for renewal (Central). States may vary.

Q17. Can a suspended advocate be a notary?

No, professional standing is essential.

Q18. How many notaries are appointed?

Numbers are limited, based on need in each area.

Q19. Is notary service different from oath commissioner?

Yes. Oath commissioners only administer oaths, while notaries have wider powers.

Q20. What seal does a notary use?

A round seal with their name, registration number, and jurisdiction.