How to Become a Notary in Washington

How to Become a Notary in Washington State

Want to become a Notary Public in Washington State? This complete guide walks you through every step of the process—from application to commission—so you can launch your Notary business with confidence. 🖋️✅

✅ Washington Notary Application Process

To get commissioned as a Notary in WA, follow these steps:

✔️ Meet eligibility requirements

🛡️ Get a $10,000 surety bond

📝 Complete your Notary application

💳 Pay the $40 application fee

📬 Submit your application and bond to the WA Department of Licensing

📄 Receive your Notary certificate

🔏 Order your official Notary seal and journal

📆 Your commission is valid for 4 years.

💰 Cost to Become a Washington Notary
Item Estimated Cost
Application fee $40
Surety bond ($10,000) $50
Notary seal $30
Notary journal $30 - $55
Total $150 – $175

💡 Additional costs may apply if you offer Remote Online Notarizations (RON) or electronic notary services.

⏱️ Commission Processing Time

The Washington State Department of Licensing typically takes at least 4 weeks to review your Notary application. Submitting online may expedite the process, but applications with errors may take longer.

📋 Washington Notary Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for a Notary commission in Washington, you must:

✅ Be at least 18 years old
✅ Be a resident of or employed in WA
✅ Be able to read and write English
🚫 Not have a history of acts demonstrating dishonesty or lack of reliability

🛡️ Surety Bond Requirement

A $10,000 surety bond is mandatory to protect the public from potential Notary misconduct. If a claim is paid out, you are responsible for reimbursing the bond provider for the amount plus any legal fees.

📝 How to Submit Your Application

Complete your Notary application

Include a copy of your surety bond

Pay the $40 fee online or by mail

Submit everything to the WA Department of Licensing:
Washington DOL Notary Portal

🔏 Required Notary Supplies

Once you receive your commission:

📌 Order your Notary seal and journal. You must provide a copy of your certificate to the seal vendor.

Your Notary seal must:

Be an inked stamp or embosser

Be circular (min. 1 5/8") or rectangular (1" x 5/8")

Use 8-point font or larger

Include:

“Notary Public”

“State of Washington”

Your name as it appears on commission

Your commission expiration date

Your commission number

🚫 The Washington State seal may not be included in the stamp.

📓 Notary Journal Requirements

WA requires a permanent, bound paper journal with numbered pages.

You must record all notarizations, including Remote Online Notarizations

Keep your journal locked and secure during your commission and for 10 years after your last entry

Look for tamper-proof, sewn binding to prevent record tampering

🚀 Ready to Start Your Notary Journey in Washington?