Becoming a notary in Washington state is a straightforward process if you follow the official steps and understand the rules. This guide walks you through eligibility, application, exams, and ongoing requirements so you can start notarizing documents with confidence.
Use this structured roadmap to prepare for your commission, avoid common delays, and maintain compliance with Washington laws.
| Step | What to Do | Agency / Contact | Typical Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Confirm eligibility | Be a Washington resident or have a place of business here, be at least 18, and have no disqualifying felony convictions. | Washington Secretary of State | Check before applying |
| Complete notary education | td>Finish a 3-hour approved notary course covering laws, ethics, and recordkeeping.Approved course provider | 1–3 days | |
| Submit application | Fill out the application form, include the filing fee, and submit online or by mail. | Washington Secretary of State | 3–5 business days to receive |
| Obtain notary bond | Purchase a $10,000 surety bond as required by state law. | Licensed surety company | 1–2 weeks |
| Take the oath and record | Take the oath of office at the county audtor’s office and submit your notary journal to the county recorder if requested. | County auditor | Within 30 days of appointment |
| Receive commission | You will get your commission certificate and begin notarizing. | Washington Secretary of State | 4–8 weeks from application |
Understand Washington Notary Requirements
Before you apply, make sure you meet the specific eligibility rules set by the state. Washington has clear standards that every applicant must follow to avoid delays or rejection.
Eligibility and Background Checks
You must be at least 18 years old, a Washington resident or have a principal place of business in the state, and be able to read and write English. You must also complete a background check, and certain felony convictions can disqualify you from becoming a notary.
Complete Approved Notary Education
Washington requires you to complete a 3-hour notary education course from a state-approved provider. This training covers laws, ethical responsibilities, and proper recordkeeping so you can perform notarizations correctly.
What the Course Covers
The course explains notary law, different types of notarial acts, how to verify identity, and how to maintain a notary journal. Completing this course is a mandatory step before you submit your application.
Submit Your Application and Pay Fees
You must submit a notary application to the Washington Secretary of State along with the required filing fee. You can apply online through the state portal or by mail, depending on your preference.
Required Documents and Fees
Your application must include proof of completed education, proof of your surety bond, and payment for the application fee. Fees are subject to change, so verify the current amounts with the Secretary of State before you submit.
Obtain Your Notary Bond and Take the Oath
A $10,000 surety bond is required by Washington law to protect the public against errors or misconduct. You must purchase this bond from a licensed surety company before you take your oath of office.
County Oath and Journal Recording
After receiving notification of your appointment, you will take your oath at your county auditor’s office. You should also submit your notary journal to the county recorder if your county requires it, ensuring your records are in order.
Maintain Your Notary Commission and Practice Safely
Ongoing compliance and careful recordkeeping help you serve the public and protect yourself from liability as a Washington notary.
- Complete any required renewals before your commission expires, usually every 4 years.
- Keep your official journal secure and record every notarial act immediately.
- Store your bond documents and commission certificate in a safe place.
- Verify signer identity each time, even if you know the person.
- Refuse to notarize documents you do not fully understand or that appear incomplete.
- Stay updated on changes in Washington notary laws through the Secretary of State website.
FAQ
Reader questions
How long does it take to become a notary in Washington after submitting the application?
Processing usually takes 4–8 weeks from the date your completed application is received, though some counties may issue appointments faster if all materials are in order.
Can I become a notary in Washington if I live in another state but work here?
Yes, you can become a notary if you have a principal place of business in Washington, even if you live in another state, as long as you meet all other eligibility requirements.
Is a notary exam required in Washington, or is the education course enough?
Washington does not require a separate written exam; passing your state-approved 3-hour education course and meeting all other requirements is sufficient for approval.
What happens if my notary bond or commission expires before I renew?
You must stop performing notarial acts immediately. To continue, you will need to purchase a new bond and, in most cases, submit a new application and pay the applicable fees again.