New Jersey Notary Exam Format

The New Jersey notary public examination tests your knowledge of notary law, procedures, and responsibilities as outlined in the New Jersey Notary Public Manual. Understanding the exam format will help you prepare effectively and pass on your first attempt.

Exam Structure

The exam is open-book, meaning you can reference the New Jersey Notary Public Manual during the test. However, don't rely too heavily on looking things up—75 minutes for 50 questions means you have about 1.5 minutes per question.

Exam Content Areas

The NJ Notary Exam covers content from the New Jersey Notary Public Manual:

1. Qualifications and Scope of Authority (Largest Section)

These questions test your knowledge of who can become a notary and what they can do:

• Eligibility requirements
• Powers and limitations
• Geographic jurisdiction
• Types of notarial acts

2. General Notarial Act Requirements

Practical knowledge of how to perform notarial acts:

• Personal appearance requirements
• Identification of signers
• Certificate completion
• Signature and seal requirements

3. Electronic and Remote Notarization

New Jersey's modern notarization methods:

• Remote Online Notarization (RON) procedures
• Electronic signature requirements
• Technology standards
• Record retention for electronic notarizations

4. Fees, Ethics, and Prohibited Acts

Professional conduct and limitations:

• Maximum fee of $2.50 per act
• Conflicts of interest
• Denial and revocation grounds
• Right to refuse service

Exam Preparation Requirements

Before you can take the exam, you must:

1. Complete the 6-hour education course approved by the State Treasurer
2. Read the entire New Jersey Notary Public Manual
3. Watch all Notary Public Manual Training Videos
4. Attest that you have completed these requirements

Exam Access

Exam Day Tips

• Have the NJ Notary Public Manual ready for reference (it's open-book!)
• Find a quiet location with stable internet
• Don't rush—but pace yourself (1.5 minutes per question)
• Read each question carefully before answering
• Use the manual strategically—know where to find key information

After the Exam

If you fail all three attempts, you'll need to pay the $2.50 fee again for another set of three attempts.