How to Pass the Colorado Notary Public Exam

If you’re looking to become a Colorado notary, our state-approved online course covers everything including your certificate. Learn about the course

Key Takeaways

Colorado requires all new (and renewing) notaries to pass the notary exam before applying
The exam is administered online by the CO Secretary of State
Topics covered: notary law, proper use of the stamp and journal, allowed and prohibited acts, and signer identification
The best preparation is a state-approved training course all exam material is covered in the coursework
Don’t search for exam answers online, study the notary law and handbook instead

One of the requirements to become a Colorado notary public is passing the Colorado Notary Public Exam. The exam ensures that notaries understand the laws and procedures they’ll follow when performing notarial acts. If you’re preparing for it, here’s what you need to know.

What the Exam Covers

The exam tests your knowledge of Colorado notary law and proper notarial procedure. Expect questions on:

When and how to perform acknowledgments, jurats, and oaths
Proper use of the notary stamp and journal
Identifying signers and acceptable forms of identification
What notaries can and cannot do (no legal advice, no notarizing for family in some cases)
Record-keeping requirements
Penalties for notary misconduct

How to Prepare

Take a state-approved training course

The most effective preparation is completing a state-approved Colorado notary training course. Colorado requires this training before you can even take the exam, so it’s not optional. Our online Colorado notary course covers everything that appears on the exam.

Read the notary handbook

The Colorado Secretary of State publishes a notary public handbook that contains all the information you need to notarize properly. It’s a valuable resource for exam prep and for keeping on your desk after you’re commissioned. You can find it on the CO SOS Notary page.

Study the notary law

Colorado requires you to read the notary law (C.R.S. § 24-21-500 et seq.) before submitting your application. Don’t just skim it to check a box. The exam tests whether you actually understand the material, including specifics like how to use the stamp and what information goes in the journal.

Study Tips

Don’t cram. Space your study sessions over a few days. You’ll retain more than trying to do everything the night before.
Take notes your way. Some people learn by writing things out, others by highlighting or making flashcards. Use what works for you.
Focus on what you’ll actually do. The exam tests practical knowledge, how to handle real notarizations. Think through scenarios, not just definitions.
Don’t stress. If you’ve completed a training course and read the handbook, you’re prepared. The exam is straightforward for anyone who’s actually studied.
Don’t search for exam answers online. The state updates the exam regularly. Searching for leaked answers is a waste of time and defeats the purpose. The exam exists to make sure you can do the job without breaking the law.

After You Pass

Once you pass the exam and complete your training, you’re ready to submit your Colorado notary application online. The CO Secretary of State typically processes applications within 3 to 5 business days. After approval, purchase your notary stamp and journal, and you can start notarizing.

Frequently Asked Questions

How hard is the Colorado notary exam?

It’s straightforward if you’ve completed a state-approved training course and read the handbook. The questions cover practical notary procedures, not trick questions. People who struggle typically haven’t studied the actual material.

Can I take the exam before completing training?

No. Colorado requires you to complete approved training first. The training and exam go hand in hand. You must do both before applying.

Do renewing notaries have to retake the exam?

Yes. Since July 2018, both new and renewing notaries must complete training and pass the exam every commission cycle (every four years).

Where do I take the exam?

The exam is administered online through the Colorado Secretary of State’s website. You take it on your own computer after completing your training.

Pass the Colorado Notary Public Exam (2026 Guide)

Key Takeaways

What the Exam Covers