Notary Information

The Recorder of Deeds’ Office requires appointments for notary commissions and oaths. Please email recorder@cumberlandcountypa.gov to schedule an appointment.

Notaries Public have been officially recognized by the Commonwealth with the power to administer oaths and affirmations, take acknowledgments, take verifications on oaths or affirmations, witness or attest signatures, certify copies or depositions, and note protests of negotiable instruments.

  • The Department of State will send notice of appointment to the applicant, with further instructions and an official bond and oath form to be executed by the applicant. These materials will be emailed to the applicant's email address provided on the application.
  • The applicant must take the oath of office and record his/her oath, completed bond and commission in the Recorder of Deeds’ Office in the county where the notary’s business office is located.
  • In Cumberland County, the applicant must also register his/her signature in the Recorder of Deed’s Office (not the Prothonotary’s Office).
  • Both of these steps must be completed within forty-five (45) calendar days after the date of appointment, or the notary’s commission becomes null and void. Extensions will not be given.
  • Only after all these steps have been completed may an individual serve as an official notary public.
  • If an appointee fails to record the oath, completed bond and commission or fails to register his/her signature within forty-five (45) days, the individual will be required to reapply to become a notary public by submitting a new application, the application fee and meeting all other requirements for appointment to a new commission and a new appointment date.

Currently, all notary address or name changes must be handled directly with the Department of State.

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PA Department of State Webpage on Notaries