How to Become a Notary in North Dakota (2026 Guide)
Published March 21, 2023 · Updated May 21, 2026
North Dakota requires a $7,500 surety bond and a $36 application fee, but no exam or training. The commission term is 4 years. Here is how to apply.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify as a North Dakota notary, you must meet the following criteria before applying for your notary comission:
- Be at least 18 years old.
- Be a United States citizen or permanent legal resident.
- Be a resident of North Dakota, have a place of employment or practice in North Dakota, or reside in a county that borders North Dakota and which is in a state that extends reciprocity to a notary public who resides in a border county of North Dakota.
- Be able to read and write in the English language.
Application Process
Step 1: Obtain a $7,500 notary bond.
Step 2: Submit a completed notary application, a $36 application fee, and the bond to the Secretary of State of North Dakota.
Step 3: Upon approval, use your Certificate of Authorization to Purchase a Notary Stamping Device form to buy your notary stamp.
Step 4: Send an impression of your notary stamping device to the Secretary of State before the date listed on the verification form.
Step 5: The North Dakota Secretary of State’s office will send a commission certificate, and you can perform notarial acts on the commencement date listed on the certificate.
Surety Bond Requirements
Yes, it is a requirement. The Secretary of State requires all notaries to purchase a $7,500 surety bond prior to applying for their notary commission.
E&O Insurance Requirements
No, not required. Errors and omissions insurance provides protection in the event that you make an unintentional error while performing your duties as a North Dakota notary.
Stamp Requirements
Yes, it is a requirement. You must purchase and use an official stamping device to for all notarial acts performed in North Dakota. The imprint of the stamp (the notary seal) should be placed near the notarial certificate.
Journal Requirements
No, not required. However, keeping a journal of all notarizations is strongly recommended for your protection.
Training Requirements
No, not required. A training course can help you learn the state’s laws and regulations regarding their duties as a notary.
Exam Requirements
No, not required.
Costs to Get Commissioned
A $36 fee is required to apply for a Notary Public commission.
The surety bond should cost about $50.
As a Notary Public in North Dakota, you will need to get some notary supplies.
The cost of these materials varies depending on which brands and types you choose. A rubber Notary stamp should be around $15 to $25.
A notarial journal (which is not required but recommended) can cost anywhere from ten to fifty dollars.
Fee Schedule
North Dakota notaries may charge up to $5 per notarial act. If both parties agree in advance, you may also charge a travel fee on top of the notarization fee.
Becoming a Signing Agent in North Dakota
Yes, a Notary Public in North Dakota can become a Notary Signing Agent.
Becoming a signing agent requires additional training and certification, but it can significantly increase your income. It also expands your client base beyond general notarization.
North Dakota Fee Schedule
North Dakota sets a maximum fee of $5 per notarial act. Travel fees are allowed if agreed upon in advance.
Notarizing for Family Members
North Dakota does not explicitly prohibit notarizing for family members. You cannot notarize a document in which you have a direct financial interest.
Penalties for Notary Misconduct
- Notarizing without authority: misdemeanor
- Fraud or forgery: felony charges
- Commission revocation, the Secretary of State can revoke your commission
- Civil liability. Your $7,500 surety bond protects the public
Employer Obligations
- Your commission is personal. It cannot be controlled by your employer
- If you leave your job, your stamp goes with you
- Your employer cannot require you to skip proper procedures
How North Dakota Compares to Neighboring States
| Requirement | North Dakota | Minnesota | Montana | South Dakota |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bond | $7,500 | None | $25,000 | None |
| Exam | No | No | Yes (80%) | No |
| Training | No | No | 4 hours | No |
| Term | 4 years | 5 years | 4 years | 6 years |
| RON | Yes | Pending | Yes | Yes |
North Dakota requires a $7,500 bond but no exam or training. Montana has the strictest requirements ($25,000 bond, 4-hour training, exam). Minnesota and South Dakota require no bond. South Dakota offers a 6-year term, North Dakota’s is 4 years.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a notary exam in North Dakota?
No. North Dakota does not require a notary exam.
Do I need a surety bond in North Dakota?
Yes. A $7,500 surety bond is required.
How long does a North Dakota notary commission last?
4 years, beginning on the commencement date listed on your commission certificate.
Is a notary stamp required in North Dakota?
Yes. All North Dakota notaries must have an official seal.
Can North Dakota notaries perform remote online notarizations?
Yes. North Dakota permits RON.
How much can a North Dakota notary charge?
The maximum fee is $5 per notarial act. Travel fees are negotiable.
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