How to Become a Notary in Washington State: A Step-by-Step Guide

What are the eligibility requirements to become a notary in Washington State?

To become a notary public in Washington State, you must be at least 18 years old, a resident of or have a place of employment or practice in Washington, able to read and write English, and not be disqualified under RCW 42.45.030. You also cannot have had your notary commission revoked in any state during the 10-year period preceding application.

The residency requirement is fairly flexible. You don’t necessarily need to live in Washington full-time. Having a regular place of business or employment within the state qualifies you, even if you reside elsewhere. This allows professionals who work across state lines, for example, to become notaries in Washington. Importantly, you must maintain a physical address in Washington for official correspondence.

The disqualification criteria under RCW 42.45.030 mainly concern legal issues that would question your integrity and trustworthiness. These include conviction of a felony, official misconduct, or any actions that would lead the Department of Licensing (DOL) to believe you are not suitable to serve as a notary. Honesty and good standing are paramount, as notaries are entrusted with verifying identities and witnessing signatures on important documents.

How much does it cost to become a notary in Washington?

The cost to become a notary public in Washington state typically ranges from $100 to $150, encompassing the application fee, surety bond, and the cost of your notary stamp and journal. This estimate does not include optional expenses like educational courses or membership in professional organizations.

While the $30 application fee payable to the Department of Licensing is a fixed cost, the price of the required four-year, $10,000 surety bond can vary depending on the vendor you choose. You’ll generally pay a small percentage of the bond’s total value as a premium. The cost of your notary stamp and journal will also depend on the supplier you select and the specific features you desire. These are essential tools for performing notarial acts and maintaining accurate records. Keep in mind that these are the primary mandatory expenses. Many notaries choose to invest in additional training or resources to enhance their knowledge and skills. Joining professional organizations like the Washington State Association of Notaries (WSAN) can provide valuable networking opportunities and access to educational materials, but these are generally optional costs.

Is there a required notary exam or training course?

No, Washington State does not currently require prospective notaries to pass an exam or complete a mandatory training course before applying for a commission. However, while not mandated, taking a training course is strongly recommended to ensure a thorough understanding of notary laws and best practices, which can reduce liability and prevent errors.

While Washington law doesn’t force you to take a class or test, the Secretary of State’s office highly encourages it. Becoming a notary public carries significant responsibility. Notaries are entrusted with verifying the identities of individuals signing important documents and deterring fraud. A training course will cover the key aspects of Washington notary law, proper notarization procedures, record-keeping requirements, and potential liabilities. This foundational knowledge can significantly improve your performance and protect you from legal repercussions. Furthermore, many employers, particularly those in the legal, real estate, and financial industries, prefer to hire or contract with notaries who have demonstrated a commitment to professional development through training. While not a legal requirement, completing a notary course demonstrates a seriousness and understanding of the role that can enhance your credibility and opportunities. Various approved providers offer these training courses, both online and in person, allowing you to choose a format that best suits your learning style and schedule.

What kind of surety bond do I need as a Washington notary?

As a Washington State notary public, you are required to obtain a surety bond in the amount of $10,000. This bond protects the public from financial loss due to any negligence or misconduct on your part while performing notarial acts.

The $10,000 surety bond must be in effect for the duration of your four-year notary commission. It is crucial to obtain the bond *before* submitting your application for renewal or initial appointment. The bond ensures that if you, as a notary, make a mistake that causes financial harm to someone, the injured party can make a claim against the bond to recover their losses, up to the bond amount. The surety company then recovers that money from you. Keep in mind that the surety bond is *not* insurance that protects *you*. It is a protection for the public you serve. For your own protection against liability, consider obtaining Errors and Omissions (E&O) insurance, which *does* protect you against claims and legal fees. While not mandated by the state, E&O insurance can provide valuable peace of mind. You will purchase the bond from a surety company authorized to do business in Washington State.

How do I renew my notary commission in Washington State?

To renew your Washington State notary commission, you must complete a renewal application online through the Department of Licensing’s website before your current commission expires. You are eligible to renew within 90 days of your expiration date. No exam or further training is required, provided you renew on time.

Renewing your notary commission in Washington is a straightforward process focused on ensuring your information is up-to-date. The online application will prompt you to confirm or update your name, address, and contact information. Be sure to have your current commission number handy, as you’ll need to provide it during the application process. It’s highly recommended to start the renewal process well in advance of your expiration date to avoid any lapse in your notary authority. Keep in mind that the renewal fee is the same as the initial application fee, currently $30. Payment is typically made online via credit card or electronic check. After your application is processed and approved, you will receive your new notary commission certificate electronically. Once you receive your new commission, you’ll need to obtain a new official seal reflecting the new expiration date. This seal is crucial for properly notarizing documents and maintaining the validity of your notarial acts.

Can I perform remote online notarization in Washington?

Yes, you can perform remote online notarization (RON) in Washington state, but only after meeting specific requirements and registering with the Department of Licensing (DOL) as a remote online notary public.

To become authorized to perform RON in Washington, you must first be a commissioned traditional notary public in good standing. After obtaining your traditional commission, you must then complete an application and receive approval from the DOL to perform remote notarizations. This application will require you to identify the specific RON technology platform you intend to use, which must comply with Washington’s RON standards. These standards include requirements for secure identity proofing, tamper-evident recordings, and secure storage of notarization records. Furthermore, you are required to take a course of study and pass an examination specifically related to remote online notarization. Once your application is approved and you have successfully met all the requirements, the DOL will authorize you to perform RON. Note that you’re responsible for ensuring all remote notarizations comply with all applicable laws and regulations, including those related to data privacy and security. You must also maintain a detailed journal of all remote notarizations performed.