The
information we've compiled refers to freelance reporting only. If you plan
on working for the State in court, most states require you to take an exam.
And while there are many states that will allow you to do freelance work
without certification, most agencies will give preference to you if you
have passed the RPR or another comparable exam. States that do have an exam
usually have a written knowledge portion as well, consisting of grammar,
punctuation, medical, legal and vocabulary. Many states offer reciprocity
for the RPR exam or state exams of a similar nature. So if you've passed
the RPR or another state exam, and you plan on moving to another state,
ask about reciprocity first - you may be in good shape! A notary license
is needed in many states, as well as membership in the state's CR association.
The "How to Qualify" section for each state tells you what it
takes to qualify for the state exam, if any - not what it takes to work
in that state.
