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How to become a notary public in South Dakota. Commission term: 6 years. Verified 2026-04-02. Data verified 2026-04-02. Source: LicenseMap (getlicensemap.com).
Notary Public
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83% of data points are verified against official sources. 2 fields based on preliminary research. We recommend confirming details with your state's licensing authority. See sources below · Report incorrect data
6 years
Commission Term
before renewal
No
Education Required
no course needed
No
Exam Required
no exam needed
No
Bond Required
no bond needed
You must be a legal resident of South Dakota (or maintain a place of business there), be at least 18 years old, and be able to read and write English. You cannot have a disqualifying criminal record.
Submit your application to the South Dakota Secretary of State. Application fee: $30.
Purchase an official notary stamp or seal that meets South Dakota requirements. Typical cost: $20-$40. Total estimated startup cost: $50-$70.
Once approved, you will receive your notary commission, valid for 6 years. You can then begin performing notarial acts in South Dakota. Remote online notarization (RON) is also permitted.
Minimum Age
18 years old
Residency
Applicant must provide a South Dakota physical residence address. If residing in an out-of-state county bordering South Dakota, must provide an Employer/Business Name and South Dakota business address.
Citizenship
U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident
Background Check
Not required
Not sure if you need a notary license? Check whether your state requires one.
Education
Not RequiredNo education course required.
Exam
Not RequiredNo exam required.
Compare top-rated notary education providers in South Dakota.
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Surety Bond
Not RequiredBond eliminated effective July 1, 2025 (HB 1133). Previously $5,000.
Errors & Omissions Insurance
Not RequiredNot required.
Seal / Stamp
RequiredOfficial notary seal required. Can be rubber, electronic, or embossing stamp. Must include name, 'Notary Public', and 'South Dakota'.
| Fee | Amount |
|---|---|
Application Fee | $30 |
Bond Premium Bond no longer required as of July 1, 2025 | N/A |
Stamp / Seal Purchased from private vendors | $20-$40 |
Total Estimated Cost Application + seal | $50-$70 |
Use our licensing cost calculator to estimate your total investment including education and exam fees.
Submit application with $30 fee to SOS
Receive commission
Purchase notary seal/stamp
Commission Term
6 years
Renewal Process
Submit new application before expiration.
Renewal Fee
$30
Regulatory Board
South Dakota authorizes remote online notarization.
Additional Requirements
Must comply with SD RON requirements.
What Makes South Dakota Unique
South Dakota eliminated its bond requirement in 2025. 6-year term with no exam, education, or bond.
Bond requirement eliminated effective July 1, 2025.
6-year commission term.
No exam or education required.
Very simple application process.
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Transfer your Notary license from South Dakota to: Iowa → | Minnesota → | Montana → | Nebraska → | North Dakota → | Wyoming →
Study guides and practice tests for the notary public exam.
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