State Requirements
How to Become a Notary in Washington
Washington notary requirements, fees, bond amounts, and step-by-step instructions.
Washington Notary Requirements at a Glance
Exam Required
No
Surety Bond
$10,000
Commission Term
4 years
Education Required
None
E&O Insurance
Optional (recommended)
Background Check
Not required
Application Fee
$30
Appointing Authority
Department of Licensing
Journal Required
No (recommended)
Remote Online Notarization
Authorized
Non-residents who are regularly employed in Washington may apply.
Steps to Become a Notary in Washington
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 Department of Licensing. The application fee is $30.
Obtain a $10,000 Surety Bond
Washington requires a $10,000 surety bond. You can purchase one from a bonding company for approximately $50–$200 for a 4 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 Washington law. Your commission will be valid for 4 years.
Washington Notary Fee Schedule
Maximum fees a notary can charge per act in Washington:
| Notarial Act | Max Fee |
|---|---|
| Acknowledgment | $10.00 |
| Jurat (Verification on Oath/Affirmation) | $10.00 |
| Oath / Affirmation | $10.00 |
| Copy Certification | $10.00 |
| Signature Witnessing | $10.00 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to take an exam to become a notary in Washington? +
No, Washington does not require a notary exam. You can apply directly through the Department of Licensing.
How much does it cost to become a notary in Washington? +
The application fee is $30. A $10,000 surety bond costs approximately $100–$200. Add $15–40 for a notary seal. Total startup cost is typically $155–$270.
How long is a notary commission in Washington? +
A notary commission in Washington lasts 4 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 Washington? +
Yes, Washington authorizes Remote Online Notarization. You’ll need to register as an electronic notary and use an approved RON platform.
More Notary Tools
Fee Calculator
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Journal Template
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Income Calculator
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