As of November 2019, what must all notary public applicants provide?

• A. A notarized signature
• B. A valid email address
• C. A letter of recommendation
• D. Proof of residency

Answer: (B)

The key point is that the application process for becoming a notary is handled largely through electronic communication. Providing a valid email address ensures the Secretary of the State’s office can reach you with important information, status updates, alerts about deadlines, and any changes to rules or requirements. Without a working email, you could miss notices essential to completing the appointment and staying compliant as a notary.

A notarized signature isn’t something the agency requires on the application itself—your own signature is used on forms, but it’s not a notarized seal the office collects for eligibility. A letter of recommendation isn’t typically needed for the notary application. Proof of residency may be requested in some contexts, but the universal requirement highlighted here is having a valid email address so you can receive communications and access electronic resources.