Becoming a notary public can be a great way to add income, increase your professional value, or even build a standalone business. But how flexible is being a notary, really? Whether you’re considering notary work as a side hustle or full-time career, flexibility is one of its most appealing benefits—but it depends on how you structure your service.
In this blog, we’ll break down the different ways notaries can work, how much control you have over your time and earnings, and why this role is popular among people seeking more work-life balance.
The Basics of Notary Flexibility
At its core, a notary public is a commissioned official who verifies identities, witnesses signatures, and helps deter fraud in legal and transactional documents. In California, once you complete a background check, take the training, pass the exam, and receive your commission, you’re free to begin working.
But what that work looks like—and how flexible it is—can vary greatly based on the path you choose.
1. Mobile Notary Services
One of the most flexible ways to work as a notary is by offering mobile notary services. This means you travel to the client’s home, office, hospital, or another agreed-upon location to perform notarizations.
Pros:
- Make your own schedule
- Set your own travel fees
- Meet clients in your service area
- Great for part-time or after-hours availability
Cons:
- Requires a reliable vehicle
- Gas and travel time can limit profitability
- Requires solid time management
Mobile notaries often serve clients who need urgent notarization, can’t travel, or require multiple documents notarized at once.
2. In-Office or Storefront Notary
You can also operate out of a physical location, such as a mail center, law office, or real estate office. In this case, clients come to you during regular business hours.
Pros:
- Steady stream of foot traffic (especially in busy areas)
- No travel involved
- May be combined with other services (copying, shipping, etc.)
Cons:
- Fixed hours
- You must be on-site during open hours
Notaries working from offices often have predictable daily schedules but may lose some of the flexibility mobile notaries enjoy.
3. Loan Signing Agents (LSAs)
Loan signing agents are commissioned notaries who specialize in real estate transactions—loan closings, refinance packets, and mortgage paperwork.
Pros:
- Higher fees per appointment ($75–$200+)
- Can work evenings and weekends
- High demand in active real estate markets
Cons:
- Requires additional certification and training
- Can involve large document packages and detailed procedures
- Appointments can be time-sensitive and longer than standard notary jobs
Loan signing is one of the most lucrative niches for notaries and offers excellent flexibility if you’re willing to invest in training.
4. Part-Time or Weekend Work
Many people become notaries as a side hustle, working around their day jobs, school, or family life. Notary work is highly conducive to this model since you can accept or decline appointments based on your schedule.
There’s no requirement to keep certain hours unless you’re under contract with a specific agency. This makes notary work ideal for parents, students, or retirees looking for additional income without full-time commitment.
5. On-Demand Platforms
Some notaries also partner with online scheduling platforms or apps to get leads and fill last-minute appointments. These services can ping you when someone in your area requests a notarization.
While competitive, these platforms can help fill your calendar if you’re willing to take spontaneous work.
Managing Your Time and Income
The amount of flexibility you have depends on:
- How you market yourself
- The type of work you accept (general vs. loan signings)
- Your availability and travel range
- Whether you work independently or as part of a business
If you’re organized and proactive, being a notary can give you control over both your time and your income.
For example, working with a reputable notary in Newport Beach might give you insight into how others in the area structure their time for maximum profitability and personal freedom.
Final Thoughts
Being a notary is one of the more flexible career options available—especially for people who value control over their time, enjoy working independently, and want to earn money on their own terms. Whether you offer mobile services, specialize in loan signings, or work part-time in a retail setting, notary work can adapt to your lifestyle.
With minimal start-up costs and a wide range of opportunities, it’s no wonder that thousands of Californians are choosing this path to supplement or even replace their traditional jobs.
