Frequently asked questions: Notaries public

How long will it take to get my notary license?

Allow at least 30 days (we don't have expedited service). Keep in mind that your license may be delayed if your application isn't completed correctly. We'll contact you if we need additional information. Then, you'll have a specific amount of time to respond before you'll have to submit a new application and fee.

I was convicted of a crime in the past. Does this disqualify me from becoming a notary?

You could be disqualified if you've been convicted within the past 10 years of any felony or gross misdemeanor relating to the practice of a notary (for example, a theft conviction). We look at each case on an individual basis.

Will I have to take a training class before I can become a notary?

No, a training class isn't required in the state of Washington. However, your role as a notary public is extremely important and shouldn't be taken lightly. In order to clearly understand the laws, duties, and responsibilities of being a notary public, we strongly urge you to take a class. For a list available courses, see Education Providers.

Will I have to take a test before I can become a notary?

No, testing isn't required in the state of Washington.

Where do I go to get a bond and how much will it cost?

You can get a 4-year term, $10,000 bond from any insurance or bonding company licensed to do surety in the state of Washington. You might check with your insurance agent for help, check in the yellow pages, or search online. The cost will vary from company to company. Our office doesn't regulate how much the bonding company charges.

How can I get another copy of my notary license?

1. Send us a letter requesting a duplicate license, and include:
   • Your name, as it appears on your notary license.
   • Your date of birth (as an additional identifier).
   • A check or money order payable to the Department of Licensing for the license $15 duplicate license fee.
2. Mail your letter and fee to:
   
   Notary Public Program
   Department of Licensing
   PO Box 35001
   Seattle, WA 98124-3401
3. If you have a different address from the last one you gave us, include it and we'll update your record. Otherwise we'll mail your certificate to the address we have on file.

Am I required to keep a journal?

As of July 1, 2018, you're required to maintain a journal of notarial acts.

The journal must be:

• A permanent, bound book with numbered pages. An electronic journal can be kept in addition to the physical journal, but can't replace it.
• Kept in a locked and secured area under your exclusive control.
• Kept for 10 years after the last notarization recorded in the journal.

Journal entries must be made at the time of the notarization and must include:

• The date and time of the notarization.
• A description of the document or act being notarized.
• Full name, address, and signature of each person for whom the notarization was performed.
• Brief description of the identification method.

If you resign your commission, or if your commission is suspended or revoked, you must let us know where the journal is located.

Can my former employer keep my notary seal/stamp, license, and bond?

No, these are the exclusive property of the notary public. They can't be used by any other person and shouldn't be surrendered to an employer upon termination of employment, regardless of whether the employer paid for the seal/stamp, license, or bond.

How can I check to see if a person is really an active notary?

You can Search business and professional licenses online to look up his or her license information.

How can I get contact information for a specific notary?

Visit the Request Public Records portal (nextrequest.com) to make your request.