Loading...
Loading...
How to become a notary public in Washington. Commission term: 4 years. Verified 2026-04-02. Data verified 2026-04-02. Source: LicenseMap (getlicensemap.com).
Notary Public
Some information on this page has not been fully verified.
75% of data points are verified against official sources. 3 fields based on preliminary research. We recommend confirming details with your state's licensing authority. See sources below · Report incorrect data
4 years
Commission Term
before renewal
No
Education Required
no course needed
No
Exam Required
no exam needed
$10,000
Bond Required
surety bond
You must be a legal resident of Washington (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 Washington State Department of Licensing. Application fee: $40 application fee; $15 electronic notarization endorsement (separate add-on).
Obtain a $10,000 surety bond. $10,000 surety bond from a company licensed to do surety in Washington. Bond cost: $35-$55.
Purchase an official notary stamp or seal that meets Washington requirements. Typical cost: $20-$40. Total estimated startup cost: $95-$135.
Once approved, you will receive your notary commission, valid for 4 years. You can then begin performing notarial acts in Washington. Remote online notarization (RON) is also permitted.
Minimum Age
18 years old
Residency
Live in Washington or have a place of employment or practice in Washington.
Citizenship
Must be lawfully present in the U.S. (SSN or ITIN required)
Background Check
Not required
Not sure if you need a notary license? Check whether your state requires one.
Education
Not RequiredNo mandatory training or exam required for traditional commission.
Exam
Not RequiredNo exam required.
Browse Notary Public study materials on Amazon →(affiliate link)
Surety Bond
Required$10,000
$10,000 surety bond from a company licensed to do surety in Washington.
Errors & Omissions Insurance
Not RequiredNot required.
Seal / Stamp
RequiredOfficial notary stamp required.
| Fee | Amount |
|---|---|
Application Fee | $40 application fee; $15 electronic notarization endorsement (separate add-on) |
Bond Premium Approximate premium for $10,000 bond for 4-year term | $35-$55 |
Stamp / Seal Purchased from private vendors | $20-$40 |
Total Estimated Cost Application + bond + seal | $95-$135 |
Use our licensing cost calculator to estimate your total investment including education and exam fees.
Obtain $10,000 surety bond
Submit application with $40 fee to Department of Licensing
Receive commission
Purchase notary stamp
Commission Term
4 years
Renewal Process
Submit new application with bond before expiration.
Renewal Fee
$40
Regulatory Board
Washington authorizes electronic notarization with additional endorsement.
Additional Requirements
Additional $15 fee for electronic notarization endorsement.
What Makes Washington Unique
Washington's notary program is administered by the Department of Licensing, not the Secretary of State. SSN or ITIN required.
Administered by Department of Licensing, not Secretary of State.
No exam or education required for traditional commission.
SSN or ITIN required as proof of lawful U.S. presence.
Notary requirements in nearby states
Other professional licenses in Washington
See how Washington compares: Notary License Fees by State — Cheapest to Most Expensive →
Related Guides
Compare notary requirements across all states →
Notary licensing requirements nationwide →
Not sure notary is right for you? Find careers that match your situation →
How does Washington compare to other states for notary? See the full comparison →
Calculate the return on investment for your notary license →
Explore requirements for other professional licenses in Washington.
Moving to Washington? Use our free Transfer Tool to see what you need →
Already licensed elsewhere? See how to transfer your Notary license to Washington →
Study guides and practice tests for the notary public exam.
Browse Study Guides on Amazon →As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
Shop essential tools and supplies to get started in your career.
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.