District of Columbia Notary Bonds

The District of Columbia requires notary publics to post a surety bond to be eligible to operate in the state. The bonds protect the public from any financial losses resulting from the notary’s negligence or misconduct while performing notarial acts. They are issued for five-year terms and remain in effect unless canceled by the surety company.

You can apply online for the bond directly through a surety company or agency. After your application is approved, you will receive a surety bond quote with the bond premium. If you accept the quote, you pay the premium and the surety company issues you the bond.

Unlike other types of surety bonds, District of Columbia notary bonds do not require a credit check as part of the underwriting process. As a result, the bonds are often issued instantly upon completing the application.

All Washington DC notary publics must post a $2,000 surety bond. The surety company issuing the bond determines the percentage of the total bond amount you need to pay as a premium. Premiums for Washington DC notary public bonds generally cost $45.

To be appointed as a notary public in the District of Columbia you must meet the following requirements set forth by the Office of Notary Commissions and Authentications (ONCA)

• Be at least 18 years old
• Must be a U.S. citizen
• Must work or reside in Washington DC
• Must be able to read and write English

If you meet these requirements, you can receive your notary commission by completing the following steps:

• Complete the notary application
• Post the $7,500 surety bond
• Complete the mandatory orientation
• Take an oath of office
• Purchase notary supplies
• Obtain errors and omissions insurance (optional)

There is a $75 filing fee for applications. The ONCA will contact you within three weeks of receiving your application to schedule the orientation. For more details on becoming a notary public in the  District of Columbia, you can visit the Office of the Secretary website.