Notary Public

The County Clerk's Office maintains records of all notaries public that are licensed and commissioned in and for Yates County.

Beginning January 25th, 2023, all notaries, including those notaries that only provide traditional in person services, are required to keep a journal of all notarial acts performed which includes the type of identification provided, for 10 years. Additionally, electronic notaries must maintain a journal of all notarial acts as well as an audio & video record of all electronic notarial acts performed.

What information must be maintained in the journal?

“Traditional” notary journal must include:

(1) the date, approximate time, and type of notarial acts performed

(2) the name and address of any individuals for whom a notarial act was performed

(3) the number and type of notarial services provided

(4) the type of credential used to identify the principal, including, for verification made where a notary relies on the oath or affirmation of two witnesses who identify themselves with a valid government issued ID and who know the document signer personally, the names of the witnesses and, if applicable, the type of credential used

(5) the verification procedures used for any personal appearance before the notary public

“Electronic” notary journal must include:

(1) the date, approximate time, and type of notarial acts performed

(2) the name and address of any individuals for whom a notarial act was performed

(3) the number and type of notarial services provided

(5) the verification procedures used for any personal appearance before the notary public

(6) for electronic notarial acts, identification of the communication technology, certification authority, and verification providers used

(7) an actual audio/video recording of the act

Renewals

Notary Public Commission Expiring after August 31, 2023? Please see below:

** Effective June 30, 2023, notary renewals expiring after August 31, 2023, must be processed through the Department of State’s online portal. **

Please use the following steps to renew your notary public commission.

1. Visit the following website: www.dos.ny.gov/notary-public

2. See Important Update: Online Application Portal and click the link “New York Business Express – Notary Public Commission (DOS-0033)_(ny.gov)”

3. Halfway down the page you will find: HOW TO APPLY

a. Apply Online for Traditional Notary Public

b. Apply Online for Electronic Notary Public

c. Apply Online to Renew Traditional Notary Public *This is the option to pick if you are simply renewing your traditional notary license*

4. You will be required to either use your current NY.GOV ID or Create one

5. You will then need to answer the 5 Qualification tabs on the application & hit submit.

The County Clerk’s office can assist you if you are unsure of your commission number. You will need to request this either in person or via a notarized letter and a photocopy of your ID.

All questions regarding the online portal should be directed to the Department of State: New York State Business Information Center Monday - Friday 8:30 am - 4:30 pm with the exception of state observed holidays +1 (518)-485-5000. Once renewed the notary may start to use the new expiration date of commission and within approximately six weeks the New York State Division of Licenses will mail a new card to the notary public.

New Notary Applications

To apply for a Notary Public commission, you must create a new account or login to your existing NY Business Express account. Follow these steps to apply for your license online:

Prior to starting your online application, download, complete, and obtain a scanned copy (i.e., PDF file) of the Oath of Office form (available to download at the link below). You will be asked to upload your completed form during the application process.
Access the online system at: New York Business Express - Notary Public Commission (DOS-0033) (ny.gov)
Sign in or create a NY.gov account.
Click on the Apply button for the type of commission you would like to apply for (traditional notary or electronic notary).

You will be able to log in to your account and view the status of your application.

NYS Department of Licensing Notary Public Information