If you want to apply to become a North Dakota Notary, you must complete the following steps:
- Meet all of your state's requirements.
- Complete an application form.
- Bring the form to a commissioned Notary.
- Buy a $7,500 surety bond.
- Submit your application, bond and fee to the Secretary of State.
- Receive your Certificate of Authorization and Verification of Notary Stamping Device Form from the Secretary of State.
- Buy an official Notary seal.
- Place an impression of the stamp on the Verification Form and return it to the Secretary of State.
- If approved, the Secretary of State will issue your Notary commission.
About the North Dakota Notary Process
The term of a Notary commission in North Dakota is four years. Here, you'll find more information about the Notary Public application process.
Cost to Become an ND Notary
The cost to become a Notary in North Dakota is approximately $121, depending on where you purchase your surety bond and Notary stamp.
| Expense |
Cost |
| Commission fee |
$36 |
| Notarization fee |
$5 |
| $7,500 surety bond |
$50 |
| Notary seal |
$30 |
| Total Cost |
$121 |
Commission Processing Length
It can take four to six weeks to become commissioned as a traditional Notary Public, depending on your availability and the time the Secretary of State needs to process your application.
North Dakota Notary Public Requirements
Find out if you qualify for a Notary commission in the Peace Garden State.
Eligibility
A Notary Public applicant in North Dakota must meet the following requirements. You must:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Be a citizen or permanent legal resident of the U.S.
- Be able to read and write English
- Be a resident of the state or an employee in or resident of a border county that extends reciprocity to Notaries
Application
Complete the application form and bring it to a commissioned North Dakota Notary. They will administer your oath of office and notarize your signature on the requirements affidavit section.
Submit your application, bond and $36 fee to the Secretary of State.
The Secretary of State will send you your Certificate of Authorization and Verification of Notary Stamping Device Form.
Surety Bond
North Dakota Notaries are required to have a $7,500 surety bond to protect signers against financial damages resulting from the Notary's negligence or misconduct.
Notaries can insure themselves against possible legal costs or damages by purchasing an errors and omissions (E&O) insurance policy. Though not required by law, an E&O policy covers a Notary's legal fees and damages up to the amount of the policy.
Notary Supplies
North Dakota Notaries must use a photographically reproducible stamp that is designed to leave a clear impression for all notarial acts on paper documents. Present your authorization to your stamp vendor.
The stamp must either be up to or equal to 1 5/8" in diameter for circular designs or be up to or equal to 2 5/8" x 7/8" for rectangular designs. The following information must be surrounded by a border on the seal:
- Your name as it appears on the authorization
- The words "Notary Public"
- The words "State of North Dakota"
- Your commission expiration date
Your stamp cannot include any other words, numbers, symbols, or reproductions of the great seal of North Dakota.
Once you receive your Notary stamp, place an impression of the stamp on the Verification Form. Return it to the Secretary of State on or before the date on the form. If approved, the Secretary of State will issue your Notary commission.
North Dakota Notary Public FAQs
Have more questions about being a Notary Public? Read on below.
Which state government office handles Notaries?
The Secretary of State, located in Bismarck, ND, is responsible for commissioning Notaries Public in North Dakota.
May I become a North Dakota Notary if I am not a U.S. citizen?
Yes. You do not have to be a U.S. citizen to become a North Dakota Notary Public. You must, however, be a permanent legal U.S. resident and meet all other application requirements.
Do I need to take Notary training or pass an exam?
No training nor exam is required to become a North Dakota Notary.
The NNA offers several training courses for Notaries that guide you through the process of a proper notarization and more.
Where will I be able to notarize?
A North Dakota Notary may perform notarial acts anywhere within the state's borders.
Who can I notarize for?
Any member of the public, as long as the request meets all statutory requirements for notarization. You may not notarize a document if you or your spouse will directly benefit from the transaction. While it's not prohibited by law, the state strongly recommends against notarizing documents for close family members as it can become an ethical issue.
What fees can North Dakota Notaries charge per notarial act?
North Dakota Notaries may charge $5 per notarial act. An additional travel fee may be charged but only if the signer and Notary agree to it in advance.
What should I do if I move or change my name?
Any updates to your address or name must be reported to the Secretary of State within 60 days of the change.
- Address Change: Complete and submit a Notary Change of Address form. A letter notifying the SOS of the change is also acceptable.
- Name Change: Complete the Notary Name Change/Notary Seal/Stamp Change form and submit it with a rider to your surety bond. The rider must state both your previous and new name and the effective date of the name change.
You’ll need to pay a $10 filing fee, receive a certificate of authorization to get a new stamping device, affix an impression of the seal on the certificate and return the document to the SOS. A commission with your new name will be issued.
What is the process to renew my Notary Public commission?
The renewal process is the same as the process you completed for your initial commission. You may start the process as early as 60 days before your commission expires.
What do I need to know about remote notarization in North Dakota?
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Last updated: Sep 16, 2025