Do NOT use first initial, middle initial, last name; nicknames are not acceptable, and you cannot use suffix's such as M.D., Ph.D, J.D., and Esq. (Sr. To be appointed as a notary public, an individual must: 1.Be at least 18 years old; 2. This tool allows Pennsylvania notaries public and prospective notaries public to apply for and renew their notary commissions in an efficient paperless process. You'll need to complete a Notary training course as part of the application process. 1. Review the application requirements carefully. Here, you can learn how to become a notary, how to renew your notary commission, and where to find educational opportunities for notaries public.