How to Become a Notary Public in Washington

1. Complete the Online Washington Notary Training Course (not required to become a notary)
2. To qualify for appointment as a Notary Public, you must:
   1. Be at least 18 years of age
   2. Be able to read and write English
   3. Reside in Washington State
      1. If you are a resident of Idaho or Oregon, you may become a Washington State Notary Public as long as you are regularly employed in Washington State or carry on business in Washington State.
3. To apply for an appointment as a Notary Public, you must:
   1. Complete the application
      1. If you are a first-time applicant or if you are renewing your appointment after your expiration date, complete the application form in full.
      2. If you are renewing your appointment before your expiration date, complete only sections A and B of the application.
      3. Notary Appointment Name: In section A of the application, you must indicate a Notary Appointment Name. This is the name you will use for notarizations, and is the name that will appear on your notary seal and certificate. You cannot use only your last name and a single initial (such as J. Smith), or only a single name (such as Smitty).
      4. Full legal name: In section A of the application, you must indicate your full legal name (First, Middle, Last) no initials. Examples of documents containing your full legal name are a passport or a state issued driver license or identification card. 2. Obtain a $10,000 surety bond
4. You must obtain a $10,000 surety bond for your 4-year term from any insurance company qualified to write surety bonds in this state.
   1. The bond must be specifically for your Notary Public appointment. No other insurance you and/or your company may have will suffice.
   2. Please do not the state your Errors and Omissions policy if you have one.
5. Submit the application Your application must contain:
   1. your completed application form
   2. a copy (keep the original for your records) of your $10,000 surety bond
   3. a $30 application fee (check or money order made out to Department of Licensing). This fee is non-refundable.
   4. Submit it to: Notary Public Program Department of Licensing PO Box 35001 Seattle, WA 98124-3401
6. Obtain your Notary seal or stamp after you receive your Notary Public Certificate from the state.
   1. You can order your Washington Notary Supplies here: Washington Notary Supplies
   2. Present us with a photocopy of your Notary Public Certificate so we can make your stamp or seal.

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