Laws and rules: Notaries public
What's changing?
On July 1, 2018, the current notary laws in Chapter 42.44 RCW will be replaced by Chapter 42.45 RCW. You should be aware of the following changes:
- The notary public appointment will now be called a notary public commission.
- You'll be required to keep a journal describing each notarial act you perform.
- You'll be able to apply for an Electronic Notary Public endorsement. With the proper software, this endorsement will allow you to notarize electronic documents.
We're currently developing new rules, and changes may come up throughout the process. Check back regularly for updates, and be prepared for the changes by reading the new law.
You can participate in the rulemaking process. See the rulemaking activity for Chapter 308-30 WAC below.
Current laws and rules
- Chapter 18.235 RCW: Uniform Regulation of Business and Professions
- Chapter 42.45 RCW: Revised Uniform Law on Notarial Acts
- Chapter 308-08 WAC: Practice and procedure
- Chapter 308-30 WAC: Notaries public
Rulemaking activity
| Rule and status | Public hearing or comments |
|---|---|
| Title 308 WAC: Licensing, Department of | See Preproposal Statement of Inquiry for information about submitting comments. |
| Chapter 308-30 WAC: Notaries Public | Public hearings held May 9, 2018 & May 10, 2018
|
| WAC 308-30155 Satisfactory evidence of identity | Public hearing held on March 10, 2015
|
*To request this information in an alternative format, please email RulesCoordinator@dol.wa.gov or call 360.902.3843. Call 711
Explanation of abbreviations
- RCW—Revised Code of Washington (Washington State laws)
- WAC—Washington Administrative Code (Washington State agency regulations)
Questions? Need help?
If you're interested in commenting on any of the above rules, or you'd like to sign up to receive information about them email our rules coordinator.
