Key Takeaways
- Must be at least 19 years old (higher than most states)
- Must be a U.S. citizen or qualified legal resident
- Must reside in Nebraska OR work regularly in Nebraska if from a bordering state
- No felony or fraud convictions in the past 5 years
- Must be able to read and write English
Last updated: January 2026
Nebraska Notary Eligibility Requirements
Age Requirement: 19 Years Old
Nebraska is one of the few states that requires notary applicants to be at least 19 years old. Most states only require applicants to be 18. This higher age requirement ensures candidates have reached a greater level of maturity and responsibility.
Complete Eligibility Requirements
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Age | Must be at least 19 years old |
| Citizenship | U.S. citizen OR qualified legal resident (permanent resident, valid work visa) |
| Residency | Nebraska resident OR non-resident from bordering state who works in Nebraska |
| Criminal History | No felony or fraud/dishonesty convictions in past 5 years |
| Language | Must be able to read and write English |
| Understanding | Must have read and understand Nebraska notary law |
Non-Resident Requirements
If you live in a bordering state, you may still become a Nebraska notary if you:
| Bordering State | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Colorado | Must maintain regular place of work/business in Nebraska |
| Iowa | Must maintain regular place of work/business in Nebraska |
| Kansas | Must maintain regular place of work/business in Nebraska |
| Missouri | Must maintain regular place of work/business in Nebraska |
| South Dakota | Must maintain regular place of work/business in Nebraska |
| Wyoming | Must maintain regular place of work/business in Nebraska |
Important: Non-residents must provide proof of Nebraska employment with their application.
Criminal History Disqualifications
You are disqualified from becoming a Nebraska notary if you have been convicted of:
| Type of Conviction | Waiting Period |
|---|---|
| Felony (any type) | 5 years from conviction |
| Crime involving fraud | 5 years from conviction |
| Crime involving dishonesty | 5 years from conviction |
Key Points to Remember
- 19 years old - Not 18 like most states
- Bordering state residents - Must work regularly in Nebraska
- 5-year lookback - For criminal history check
- English proficiency - Required for reading/writing
On the Exam
- Nebraska requires applicants to be 19 years old (not 18)
- Non-residents from bordering states must work in Nebraska
- Criminal convictions involving fraud or dishonesty disqualify for 5 years
- Must be able to read and write English
Test Your Knowledge
Which of the following states is NOT a bordering state that qualifies for Nebraska non-resident notary status?
A
B
C
D
Test Your Knowledge
A person was convicted of credit card fraud 4 years ago. Can they apply to become a Nebraska notary?
A
B
C
D