How to become a notary public

Requirements

To become a notary public, you must:

  • Be at least 18 years of age.
  • Be able to read and write English.
  • Live in Washington State, or live in Idaho or Oregon while employed regularly in Washington or doing business in Washington.
  • Have a $10,000 surety bond from an insurance company or bonding company.

How to apply

  1. Complete a Notary Public Appointment or Reappointment Application.
  2. Get a $10,000 surety bond from any insurance company qualified to write surety bonds in Washington.
    • The surety bond must cover the 4-year notary public term.
    • The name on the surety bond should be identical to your name and signature on the application form.
  3. Send us all of the following:
    • Your completed, signed application.
    • A copy of your surety bond. (Please don’t send us your errors and omissions policy.)
    • A check or money order for the $30 fee, payable to the Department of Licensing.

See also:

Access Washington