The process to become a Notary Public in Idaho includes the following steps:
- Meet Idaho's eligibility requirements.
- Get a $10,000 surety bond.
- Complete the Notary Public Application Form and get it notarized.
- Submit your signed bond, completed application form and $30 filing fee to the Idaho Secretary of State.
- Buy your Notary seal.
About the Idaho Notary Process
The Idaho Notary commission is valid for six years, after which you’ll need to renew it to continue serving as a Notary. Have more questions about applying for a Notary commission? We have your answers.
Cost to Become an ID Notary
The cost to become a Notary in Idaho is approximately $120. The total cost will depend on where you purchase your surety bond, Notary seal and any other optional Notary supplies you get.
| Expense |
Cost |
| Application fee |
$30 |
| $10,000 surety bond |
$60 |
| Notary seal |
$30 |
| Total Cost |
$120 |
If you’re an officer or employee of a state, county, city, or district, and your commission is used for your job, you are exempt from the $30 filing fee.
Commission Processing Time
It can take two to four weeks to get your Notary Public commission, depending on your availability and the time it takes for the Secretary of State to process your application.
Idaho Notary Public Requirements
Here, you'll learn how you can qualify to become a Notary in the Gem State.
Eligibility
There are basic qualifications an applicant must meet to be a Notary in Idaho:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Be a U.S. citizen or permanent legal resident
- Be a resident of, or an employee in, the state of Idaho
- Be able to read and write
Surety Bond
A $10,000 surety bond with a six-year term is required for all Idaho Notaries. Additionally, many people choose to purchase errors and omissions (E&O) insurance policies to protect themselves from legal expenses. E&O insurance is not a requirement in Idaho.
Application
Complete your Notary Public Application Form. Print the form and take it to an Idaho Notary for notarization.
Submit your signed bond, completed application form and $30 filing fee to the Idaho Secretary of State.
You’ll receive your Certificate of Commission, which you’ll use to get your Notary seal.
Notary Supplies
A Notary seal is required by the ID Secretary of State. Your official Idaho Notary seal must be an inked stamp, and it should not bleed during or after use, as this can cause county officials to reject documents due to smudging. The seal must be either 2.25" x 1". if rectangular or 1.75" in diameter if round. The following information must be on the seal:
- Your name as it appears on your commission
- The words "Notary Public"
- The words "State of Idaho"
- Your commission identification number
- The words "My commission expires _______ (date)" (optional)
Idaho Notary Public FAQs
Below, you'll find more information on being a Notary Public in Idaho.
Which state government office handles Notaries?
The Idaho Secretary of State's Office, located in Boise, ID, issues Notary Public commissions.
Is there a training or an exam requirement in Idaho?
The Secretary of State doesn’t require applicants for a Notary Public commission to complete training or pass an exam, but they do recommend taking an education course and offers Notary training on their website.
The NNA also has several online training courses for Idaho Notaries new to the profession and experienced ones who are looking to advance.
Do Idaho Notaries need a journal?
Where will I be able to notarize?
Once commissioned, you will be able to notarize anywhere in the state of Idaho.
Who can I notarize for?
Idaho Notaries may perform notarizations for everyone, excluding themselves and their spouses. You cannot notarize your own signature, nor can you notarize documents you are named in or would benefit from. If you perform notarizations as part of your employment, your employer may limit the notarizations you perform during your work hours.
How much can ID Notaries charge for their services?
Idaho Notaries can charge a maximum fee of $5 per notarization.
An additional fee may be charged, but the signer must agree to it in advance and the fee should not exceed the actual and reasonable expense of traveling to a place where the notarial act will be performed if it’s not the usual place where you perform notarizations.
What should I do if I move or change my name?
If you move or change your name, complete the Notary Public Commission Name or Address Change form and pay the $5 fee.
Changes to your mailing address are free.
For name changes, you'll receive an amended commission at which point you'll need to buy a new stamp bearing your new name.
What is the process to renew my Idaho Notary commission?
The process to renew your Idaho Notary Public commission is the same as when you first applied. The earliest you may begin the application process is 90 days before your commission expiration date. Once your commission is renewed, you’ll need to get a new Notary seal to reflect your updated commission expiration date and a journal if your old one is full.
What do I need to know about remote online notarization in Idaho?
As of January 1, 2020, remote online notarization is allowed in Idaho. Remote Notaries can generally notarize for signers located anywhere as long as the Notary is physically located within Idaho at the time of notarization.
There are additional requirements for remote Notaries including the requirement of a journal. Follow the steps in this guide to apply for your remote authorization.
Back to Top
Last updated: Jun 12, 2025