Who Can Become a Colorado Notary Public?
If you’re looking to become a Colorado notary, our state-approved online course covers everything including your certificate. Learn about the course
Becoming a notary public is a big responsibility. Colorado notary publics help prevent fraud and are appointed by the state. The Secretary of State’s office has specific requirements for who can hold a commission. If you don’t meet them, your application will be denied.
Colorado Notary Eligibility Requirements
- You must be a resident of Colorado or have a place of employment or practice in the state
- You must be at least 18 years of age
- You must never have been convicted of a felony
- You must not have been convicted of a misdemeanor involving dishonesty within the past five years
- You must be able to read and write English
- You must never have had a notary commission revoked in any state
- You must be a US citizen, permanent legal resident, or otherwise lawfully present in the United States
What Counts as a Misdemeanor Involving Dishonesty
Colorado’s Secretary of State does not publish an exhaustive list, but “dishonesty” generally covers crimes involving fraud, theft, forgery, or deception. Common examples include:
- Theft or shoplifting
- Fraud (insurance fraud, check fraud, identity theft)
- Forgery or falsifying documents
- Embezzlement
- Perjury or making false statements
A DUI, drug possession, or assault charge would not typically count as involving dishonesty. The five-year clock starts from the date of conviction, not the date of the offense. If you have a question about a specific charge, contact the Colorado SOS notary program before applying.
Residency and Employment Requirements
You do not need to live in Colorado to become a Colorado notary. If you work in the state or have a professional practice there, you qualify. This is useful for notaries who live in a border state (Wyoming, Nebraska, Kansas, Oklahoma, New Mexico, Utah) but conduct business in Colorado.
Out-of-state applicants must provide proof of their Colorado employment or practice when they apply. A letter from an employer, a business license, or similar documentation usually suffices.
What Happens If Your Application Is Denied
If the Secretary of State denies your notary application, you will receive a written explanation. Common reasons for denial include:
- Felony conviction found on background check
- Recent misdemeanor involving dishonesty
- Incomplete or inaccurate application
- Failed to disclose a criminal history
You can reapply after the disqualifying period passes (for misdemeanors, five years from conviction). Felony convictions are permanent disqualifiers. See our Colorado notary application denial guide for more details.
Next Steps If You Qualify
If you meet these requirements, it’s time to start the process. Colorado requires you to complete a notary training course, pass a state exam, submit your application, pay the $10 application fee, and purchase your notary stamp and journal. The entire process typically takes 2 to 4 weeks from training to commission.
Read our full guide on how to become a notary in Colorado for step-by-step instructions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a non-resident become a Colorado notary?
Yes, if you have a place of employment or practice in Colorado. You do not need to live in the state.
Can a felon become a notary in Colorado?
No. A felony conviction permanently disqualifies you. A misdemeanor involving dishonesty disqualifies you for five years from the date of conviction.
Do I need to be a US citizen?
No. You must be a US citizen, permanent legal resident, or otherwise lawfully present in the United States. Citizenship is not required.
Is there an age requirement?
Yes. You must be at least 18 years old.
Can I become a notary if my previous commission was revoked?
No. A previously revoked commission permanently disqualifies you from holding a notary commission in Colorado.
What disqualifying misdemeanors count?
Crimes involving fraud, theft, forgery, or deception. Traffic violations, DUI, and drug charges generally do not count as involving dishonesty.
How long does a misdemeanor disqualification last?
Five years from the date of conviction. After that period, you can apply.
Ready to Become a Notary?
Our state-approved online course covers everything you need. Complete the training, pass the exam, get your commission.
