State Requirements
How to Become a Notary in District of Columbia
District of Columbia notary requirements, fees, bond amounts, and step-by-step instructions.
District of Columbia Notary Requirements at a Glance
Exam Required
No
Surety Bond
$2,000
Commission Term
5 years
Education Required
None
E&O Insurance
Optional (recommended)
Background Check
Not required
Application Fee
$75
Appointing Authority
Mayor / DC Government
Journal Required
No (recommended)
Remote Online Notarization
Authorized
Non-residents employed in DC may apply.
Steps to Become a Notary in District of Columbia
Meet Basic Requirements
You must be at least 18 years old. You must be a legal U.S. resident with no disqualifying criminal record.
Submit Your Application
Apply through the Mayor / DC Government. The application fee is $75.
Obtain a $2,000 Surety Bond
District of Columbia requires a $2,000 surety bond. You can purchase one from a bonding company for approximately $30–$40 for a 5 years term.
Purchase Your Notary Seal & Supplies
Get your official notary seal/stamp, notary journal (if required), and any other supplies needed for your practice.
Take the Oath of Office
Once your commission is approved, take the oath of office as required by District of Columbia law. Your commission will be valid for 5 years.
District of Columbia Notary Fee Schedule
Maximum fees a notary can charge per act in District of Columbia:
| Notarial Act | Max Fee |
|---|---|
| Acknowledgment | $5.00 |
| Jurat (Verification on Oath/Affirmation) | $5.00 |
| Oath / Affirmation | $5.00 |
| Copy Certification | $5.00 |
| Signature Witnessing | $5.00 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to take an exam to become a notary in District of Columbia? +
No, District of Columbia does not require a notary exam. You can apply directly through the Mayor / DC Government.
How much does it cost to become a notary in District of Columbia? +
The application fee is $75. A $2,000 surety bond costs approximately $30–$40. Add $15–40 for a notary seal. Total startup cost is typically $120–$155.
How long is a notary commission in District of Columbia? +
A notary commission in District of Columbia lasts 5 years. After that, you’ll need to renew by filing a new application and bond (if required).
Can I perform Remote Online Notarization (RON) in District of Columbia? +
Yes, District of Columbia authorizes Remote Online Notarization. You’ll need to register as an electronic notary and use an approved RON platform.
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