Become a Signing Agent

Being a notary signing agent can be a really rewarding career as a full-time job, or as a great part-time side-hustle to earn some extra cash. It’s also not a difficult process to become one. Because navigating the loan and mortgage process can be complicated and confusing, it’s important that you know your stuff so you can help guide potential borrowers through it. If you’re interested in becoming a signing agent, we’ve answered a few of the most common questions about what it takes.

Steps

What does a signing agent do?

1. A notary signing agent (NSA) helps facilitate loan closings. NSAs are commissioned as a notary public and assist in the mortgage finance and real estate industry. They help walk potential borrowers, usually people trying to secure a loan to purchase a home, through the loan signing process.
   • While a notary public is able to witness signatures to certify an agreement, a signing agent is able to witness signatures and is knowledgeable enough about the entire process to help guide and inform borrowers.

Are signing agents in demand?

1. Yes, signing agents are in demand pretty much everywhere. Loan and title companies need notary signing agents to help folks navigate the entire loan process. As long as people need loans and mortgages, there will be a need for signing agents.

How long does it take to become a signing agent?

1. It takes a few weeks, depending on your state’s requirements. Some states may require background checks and other steps that can slow down the process. You’ll also need to take a signing agent exam and purchase the necessary insurance and licenses that are required in your state.
   • Your state may also be backlogged with applications, which can cause your application to take longer to get approved.

What education do I need to become a signing agent?

1. Enroll in notary signing agent course. Look up notary signing agent courses you can sign up for online or in your area. Purchase any necessary textbooks or materials for your course and go to every class so you can absorb the information and ask questions about anything that’s unclear to you. You’ll learn the ins and outs of the loan signing process as well as information you’ll need in order to pass your notary exam.
   • Taking a notary course is a requirement to apply for a notary commission, which you’ll need to be a signing agent.

What can I expect on the notary signing agent exam?

1. The exam has 3 parts and consists of multiple-choice questions. The first part involves basic rules about being a notary, the second part covers how to prepare loan signings and paperwork, and the last section goes over professional responsibilities and codes of conduct.
2. You need to score at least an 80% on each of the 3 parts. Each section is scored separately, and you have to pass all 3 of them. But if you don’t pass the test, you can sign up to take it again. Focus on studying the material you struggled with on the previous test.

How do you prepare for the notary signing agent exam?

1. Complete the coursework and sign up for the exam. At the end of the course, you’ll be eligible to sign up for the exam. Schedule a date for your test and review your course material to study and prepare for the exam.
   • Take notes while you’re in class so you can use them to help study.
   • Look up study guides online that you can use to prepare.
2. Use practice tests to help prepare you for the test. Your textbook may have sample tests, but if it doesn’t, try looking up practice tests for the notary signing agent exam online. Treat the practice tests like the real thing to test your knowledge and see where you need to focus your studies.
   • For instance, if you’re missing questions about a specific procedure for loan signings, focus on studying that information.
   • The test is designed to challenge your knowledge of loan closing procedures, general notary laws, and your state’s specific notary laws and procedures, so there’s a lot of info to cover!

How do you apply to become a signing agent?

1. Complete your state’s application and pay the fee. Once you pass the notary signing agent exam, you can apply to become a licensed agent. Fill out your state’s application, submit it, and pay the application fee, which can cost around $70 but can vary from state to state.
2. Purchase an errors and omissions policy. Most states require signing agents to carry a specific insurance policy known as an errors and omissions policy (E&O). In order for your application to be approved, you’ll need to show proof of insurance. Usually, an E&O policy costs about $100 a year.

How much does it cost to become a signing agent?

1. It ranges from $69 to a few hundred dollars, depending on your state. Different states have different requirements and different fees for things like applications and processing fees. The cost of insurance can also vary depending on your location.

Tips

• If you’re preparing for the notary signing agent exam, look online for sample tests and practice tests you can use to prepare.

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