How to Become a Notary in Washington (2026)
Step-by-step guide to getting your Washington notary commission — fees, bond, exam, and timeline. All data from official Washington state sources.
How to Become a Notary in Washington — Step by Step
Meet the eligibility requirements
To become a notary in Washington, you must be at least 18 years old, a legal U.S. resident, and either a resident of Washington or regularly employed there. You cannot have felony convictions (in most states) unless your civil rights have been restored.
Obtain your $10,000 surety bond
Washington requires a $10,000 surety bond before you can be commissioned. Purchase the bond from a licensed insurance or surety company — the actual premium typically costs $40–$100 for your entire 4-year term. The bond protects the public from errors you may make as a notary; it does not protect you personally.
Submit your application to the Department of Licensing
File your completed notary application with the Department of Licensing and pay the $40 application fee. Include proof of your surety bond with the application. Most states now accept online applications.
Receive your commission and take your oath of office
After your application is approved, you'll receive your notary commission certificate. You must then take an official oath of office — typically before a notary public, judge, or court clerk — within 30–90 days. Missing this deadline can void your commission entirely.
Purchase your notary supplies
Order your official Washington notary seal or stamp and a notary journal/record book. Most states require a specific seal format — check the Department of Licensing requirements for approved shapes, ink colors, and required text. Supplies typically cost $30–$60. Estimated cost for Washington: $50.
Start notarizing — and consider signing agent training
Once commissioned, you can begin performing notarizations in Washington. Traditional notary fees in Washington: up to $15 per act (state-capped). Washington also allows Remote Online Notarization (RON), capped at $25 per act — a growing income opportunity. For higher earnings, consider training as a notary signing agent (see below).
Get Your Washington Notary Training Materials
NotaryPublicCentral has state-specific study guides and training for Washington. Use code LEGALCOSTCALC for $10 off.
Washington Notary Commission — Cost Summary
| State application fee | $40 |
| Commission term | 4 years |
| Surety bond | $10,000 face value (~$40–$100 to purchase) |
| Exam | Not required |
| Education course | Not required |
| Notary supplies (stamp + journal) | ~$50 |
| Filing office | Department of Licensing |
| RON available | Yes |
| Est. total startup cost | $130–$190 |
No pre-appointment education required. Electronic notary endorsement available ($55 total). Applications processed through the Department of Licensing (DOL) — not the Secretary of State.
Source: Department of Licensing — Official Washington Notary Page ↗
What Can a Washington Notary Charge?
Washington caps notary fees at $15 per notarial act. Remote online notarizations are capped at $25. $15 per act; $25 for RON. Travel fees allowed with guidelines.
Earn $75–$200 Per Signing as a Washington Notary Signing Agent
Once you have your Washington notary commission, you can earn serious income as a signing agent at real estate loan closings. Loan Signing System teaches you how to find clients and run a full signing business.
Explore Notary Signing Agent Training →