Imagine having a career where you call the shots, set your own hours, and bring in extra income while helping people with some of life’s most important documents. Becoming a Notary Public opens the door to just that kind of opportunity. Whether you're looking for a flexible side hustle, a full-time business, or a skill to enhance your professional services, being a notary offers freedom, financial potential, and the chance to serve your community in meaningful ways.

But what makes this industry so appealing? And are there misconceptions that could lead new notaries down the wrong path? Let's take a closer look.

Why People Are Choosing Notary Work

For many, the first draw of becoming a notary is how easy and affordable it is to get started. Unlike other careers that require years of education or large investments, most states have simple licensing requirements and minimal startup costs, making it a quick and accessible career path.

Beyond that, the flexibility is unmatched. Whether you're a parent looking for extra income without giving up time with your kids, a retiree wanting to stay active in the workforce, or a working professional eager to add another revenue stream, a notary business allows you to work on your terms. Mobile notaries, in particular, can travel to their clients and schedule appointments at their convenience, making it even easier to fit into a busy lifestyle.

And then, of course, there's the earning potential. Many notaries start with general notarization work, but those who expand into specialized services can significantly increase their income. Opportunities include:

• Loan Signing Agent Services, working with real estate documents.
• Remote Online Notarization (RON), which allows you to notarize documents virtually.
• Field Inspections, Fingerprinting, I-9 verifications, and even officiating weddings in some states.
• Apostille services for international document authentication.
• Process serving, assisting law firms in delivering legal documents.

With so many industries needing notaries—including legal offices, real estate, banking, and healthcare—the demand is steady and recession-resistant. Many successful notaries even scale their business into a full-time career by branding themselves, marketing their services, and building long-term client relationships.

The Myths That Mislead New Notaries

While notary work can be a great opportunity, some people enter the field with the wrong expectations. Let’s clear up some of the biggest misconceptions:

🚫 Myth #1: "Becoming a Notary Instantly Makes You Rich"

✔ Reality: While notaries can make great money, success takes effort, strategy, and specialization. Simply having a notary commission doesn’t mean clients will automatically come to you—you need to actively promote your services.

🚫 Myth #2: "All Notaries Do Is Stamp Documents"

✔ Reality: Notaries verify identities, ensure documents are signed willingly, and prevent fraud. Their role is critical in legal and financial transactions, going far beyond just applying a seal.

🚫 Myth #3: "Anyone Can Become a Notary Anywhere"

✔ Reality: Each state has different rules and requirements, including background checks, exams, and training. Some states have stricter regulations than others, so always check your local guidelines.

🚫 Myth #4: "Remote Online Notarization (RON) Means I Can Work Anywhere in the U.S."

✔ Reality: While RON allows you to notarize documents virtually, you must follow your state’s laws, and there may be limitations on your jurisdiction defined by your state.

🚫 Myth #5: "Notaries Can Give Legal Advice"

✔ Reality: Notaries are not attorneys. They cannot provide legal advice, draft documents, or interpret legal terms. Doing so could result in legal consequences for unauthorized practice of law.

🚫 Myth #6: "Once You’re a Commissioned Notary, That’s It!"

✔ Reality: Many people assume that once they obtain their notary commission, they know everything they need to succeed. However, ongoing education is crucial for success. From learning how to properly execute notarizations to staying updated on state-specific laws and best practices, continuous learning is a must. Additionally, expanding your knowledge allows you to serve clients in multiple capacities beyond traditional notarization. As trusted, vetted professionals in public service, notaries who invest in their education can unlock greater career opportunities and provide even more value to their clients, by becoming less of a liability risk.

🚫 Myth #7: "You Don't Need to Pay for Training, There’s So Much Free Content on YouTube"

✔ Reality: There IS an abundance of free information available, but not all of it is accurate or applicable to your specific state. Each state has different rules, best practices, and legal requirements, making it difficult to determine whether a source is reputable. Sorting through the overwhelming amount of content to find correct, state-specific information takes time and effort. Additionally, many online sources provide personal interpretations of the law rather than official guidelines. Mentorship removes the guesswork by providing direct, reliable, and state-specific education, along with ongoing support to help you avoid costly mistakes and build your business efficiently.

Is Becoming a Notary Right for You?

Choosing to become a notary is more than just a job—it’s a pathway to financial independence, professional growth, and community service. The flexibility, low startup costs, and high demand make it a fantastic opportunity for those willing to put in the effort to learn and grow. But like any business, success requires knowledge, strategy, and commitment.

If you’re someone who values flexibility, enjoys helping people, and wants to create a reliable source of income, this could be the perfect career for you. The key to thriving as a notary is ongoing education, smart marketing, and leveraging the right resources to set yourself apart.

Don’t let uncertainty hold you back. Whether you’re just getting started or looking to elevate your notary business, the right guidance can make all the difference. That’s where mentorship comes in—helping you navigate the ins and outs of the industry with confidence.

If you’re looking for a flexible, affordable, and in-demand career, becoming a Notary Public could be the perfect fit. However, success depends on understanding the responsibilities, staying compliant with laws, and marketing yourself effectively to grow your business. 

Join Notary Academy's State Specific Mentorship program and get the tools, training, and ongoing support you need to succeed. Let’s work together to turn your notary commission into a thriving business and create a career that fits your lifestyle and goals!