How to Become a Notary in Nebraska (2026 Guide)
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Key Takeaways
- Exam required: must score 85% or higher
- $15,000 surety bond required (premium ~$40)
- Application fee: $30 | Commission term: 4 years
- Notary stamp required
- No journal required but recommended
- RON available with separate application
- Must be 18+ and a NE resident (or employed in NE)
Exam required: must score 85% or higher. Here’s how the process works.
Requirements
- Be at least 18 years old
- Be a resident of Nebraska, or a non-resident employed in Nebraska
Disqualifying Factors
Nebraska evaluates applicants on a case-by-case basis. Criminal history and providing false information on your application can disqualify you.
Step-by-Step Application Process
Step 1: Purchase Your $15,000 Surety Bond
Nebraska requires a $15,000 surety bond. The premium costs about $40.
Step 2: Pass the Notary Exam
Take and pass the notary exam with a score of 85% or higher. If you fail, you must wait 30 days and submit a new application with an additional fee.
Step 3: Submit Your Application
Mail your application to the Nebraska Secretary of State with your bond, US Citizenship Attestation Form, and $30 fee. If you’re a non-resident, include the Evidence of Employment form.
Step 4: Purchase Your Notary Seal
Nebraska requires a notary stamp. Order one after approval.
Costs to Get Commissioned
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| Application fee | $30 |
| $15,000 surety bond premium | ~$40 |
| Notary stamp (required) | $15-$25 |
| Notary journal (recommended) | $10-$50 |
| Total | $95-$145 |
Maximum Allowable Fees
Nebraska sets the following fee caps: $5 per acknowledgment, $2 per jurat, $2 per verbal oath. RON notarizations are capped at $25 plus the regular notary fee. Travel fees may be charged on a mileage basis.
Authorized Notarial Acts
- Take acknowledgments
- Administer oaths and affirmations
- Take verifications
- Witness signatures
- Certify copies
- Protest negotiable instruments
Notary Stamp Requirements
Nebraska requires a notary stamp. All notarized documents must bear your official seal.
Notarizing for Family Members
NE does not explicitly prohibit notarizing for family members. Avoid notarizing documents where you have a direct financial or beneficial interest.
Penalties for Notary Misconduct
Performing notarial acts without a valid commission can result in legal consequences. The 85% exam pass threshold shows Nebraska expects notary competence.
Errors and Omissions Insurance
Not required, but recommended to protect against liability from errors or negligence.
Renewal
4 years. You must retake and pass the exam to renew. No grace period.
Remote Online Notarization (RON)
Nebraska allows RON. Active notaries can register to become remote online notaries with additional requirements, including maintaining a journal for RON transactions.
Becoming a Signing Agent
After receiving your commission, complete a signing agent certification program and register with signing service companies.
Nebraska’s $15,000 bond is higher than neighboring Iowa ($0) and South Dakota ($0) but lower than Montana’s $25,000. The 85% exam pass requirement is one of the highest in the country.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a notary exam in Nebraska?
Yes. You must score 85% or higher. If you fail, wait 30 days and reapply.
Do I need a surety bond in Nebraska?
Yes. Nebraska requires a $15,000 surety bond. Premium costs about $40.
How long does a Nebraska notary commission last?
4 years. You must retake the exam to renew.
Is a notary stamp required in Nebraska?
Yes. All Nebraska notaries must have an official notary seal.
How much can a Nebraska notary charge?
$5 per acknowledgment, $2 per jurat, $2 per oath. RON is $25 plus regular fee.
Can Nebraska notaries perform remote online notarizations?
Yes. Register as a remote online notary with additional requirements.
Employer Obligations
- Your notary commission is personal. It does not belong to your employer
- If you leave your job, your stamp and commission go with you
- Your employer cannot require you to skip proper notarization procedures
- An employer who pressures you into misconduct may share legal liability
How Nebraska Compares to Neighboring States
| Requirement | Nebraska | Iowa | South Dakota | Kansas |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bond | $15,000 | None | None | $12,000 |
| Exam | Yes (85%) | No | No | No |
| Training | No | No | No | No |
| Term | 4 years | 3 years | 6 years | 4 years |
| Max Fee | $5 | $30 | Reasonable | $5 |
| RON | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Nebraska has the strictest exam requirement in the region (85% pass rate) and the highest bond ($15,000). Iowa and South Dakota require no bond. Iowa has the highest fee cap at $30. South Dakota eliminated its bond in 2025 (HB 1133).
Related Reading
- How To Become A Notary In Iowa
- How To Become A Notary In South Dakota
- How To Become A Notary Signing Agent
Updated May 2026. Requirements based on the Nebraska Secretary of State and Neb. Rev. Stat. Chapter 64.
