State Requirements
How to Become a Notary in Louisiana
Louisiana notary requirements, fees, bond amounts, and step-by-step instructions.
Louisiana Notary Requirements at a Glance
Exam Required
Yes
Surety Bond
$10,000
Commission Term
Life (with good behavior)
Education Required
None
E&O Insurance
Optional (recommended)
Background Check
Not required
Application Fee
$35
Appointing Authority
Secretary of State
Journal Required
Yes
Remote Online Notarization
Authorized
Louisiana notaries are civil law notaries with quasi-judicial powers. Must pass an exam. Lifetime commission.
Steps to Become a Notary in Louisiana
Meet Basic Requirements
You must be at least 18 years old and a resident of Louisiana. You must be a legal U.S. resident with no disqualifying criminal record.
Pass the Notary Exam
Louisiana requires passing a state-administered notary exam. The exam covers notary law, procedures, and ethics. Prepare with practice tests and study materials.
Submit Your Application
Apply through the Secretary of State. The application fee is $35.
Obtain a $10,000 Surety Bond
Louisiana requires a $10,000 surety bond. You can purchase one from a bonding company for approximately $50–$200 for a Life (with good behavior) 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 Louisiana law. Your commission will be valid for Life (with good behavior).
Louisiana Notary Fee Schedule
Maximum fees a notary can charge per act in Louisiana:
| 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 |
Louisiana notaries are civil law notaries with broader powers. Fee limits may differ.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to take an exam to become a notary in Louisiana? +
Yes, Louisiana requires passing a notary exam. The exam covers notary laws, procedures, and ethical responsibilities specific to Louisiana.
How much does it cost to become a notary in Louisiana? +
The application fee is $35. A $10,000 surety bond costs approximately $100–$200. Add $15–40 for a notary seal. Total startup cost is typically $160–$275.
How long is a notary commission in Louisiana? +
A notary commission in Louisiana lasts Life (with good behavior). After that, you’ll need to renew by filing a new application and bond (if required).
Can I perform Remote Online Notarization (RON) in Louisiana? +
Yes, Louisiana authorizes Remote Online Notarization. You’ll need to register as an electronic notary and use an approved RON platform.
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