Key Takeaways
- Colorado provides FREE online training through the Secretary of State
- The examination is also FREE and administered online
- The exam has 40 multiple-choice questions
- A passing score of 80% (32 correct answers) is required
- The exam is open-book format
- Exam results are valid for 90 days
Last updated: January 2026
Training and Examination Requirements
Colorado is unique among states in providing completely FREE training and examination for notary applicants through the Secretary of State's website.
Training Overview
| Training Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Provider | Colorado Secretary of State |
| Cost | FREE |
| Format | Online eLearning |
| Location | sos.state.co.us |
| Requirement | Must complete before exam |
Training Content
The free RULONA training covers:
| Topic | Description |
|---|---|
| RULONA Overview | Understanding Colorado's notary law |
| Notarial Acts | Types and procedures for each act |
| Identification | Proper methods to verify signer identity |
| Journal Keeping | Required recordkeeping practices |
| Seals & Stamps | Proper stamp specifications and use |
| Electronic Notarization | E-notarization and RON requirements |
| Prohibited Acts | What notaries cannot do |
| Penalties | Consequences for violations |
Examination Details
| Exam Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Total Questions | 40 multiple-choice |
| Passing Score | 80% (32 correct) |
| Format | Online, open-book |
| Cost | FREE |
| Time Limit | No specific time limit |
| Results Validity | 90 days |
Open-Book Advantage
The Colorado exam is open-book, meaning:
- You may reference training materials during the exam
- You may use the Colorado Notary Handbook
- There is no proctor watching
- Take the exam at your own pace
- Take from any location with internet access
Retaking the Exam
| Scenario | What Happens |
|---|---|
| First attempt failure | May retake immediately |
| Multiple failures | No limit on attempts |
| Best practice | Review training before retaking |
Required for Both New and Renewing Notaries
Important: Both first-time applicants AND notaries renewing their commission must:
- Complete the approved training
- Pass the examination
There is no exemption for experienced notaries.
On the Exam
- Training cost: FREE
- Exam cost: FREE
- Format: Open-book, 40 questions
- Passing score: 80% (32 correct)
- Renewal: Training and exam required even for renewals
Test Your Knowledge
What is the passing score for the Colorado notary examination?
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Test Your Knowledge
When renewing a Colorado notary commission, what is required?
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