How to Become a Notary in Idaho (2026 Guide)
Published March 17, 2023 · Updated May 26, 2026
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Key Takeaways
- No exam required (free training available from SOS)
- $10,000 surety bond required
- Application fee: $30 | Commission term: 6 years
- Notary stamp required
- RON available
- Must be 18+, a US citizen or legal resident, living or working in ID
No exam required (free training available from SOS). Here’s how the process works.
Requirements
- Be at least 18 years old
- Be a US citizen or permanent legal resident
- Be a resident of Idaho or have a place of employment in the state
- Not be disqualified under Idaho code
Disqualifying Factors
Idaho evaluates applicants on a case-by-case basis. Criminal history and disqualifications under Idaho code can bar you.
Step-by-Step Application Process
Step 1: Purchase Your $10,000 Surety Bond
Idaho requires a $10,000 surety bond from an authorized surety company. The premium typically costs $30-$40.
Step 2: Complete the Application
Fill out the online application, print it, and have it notarized by an Idaho notary public.
Step 3: Submit to the Secretary of State
Mail your application, original bond, and $30 fee to the Idaho Secretary of State.
Costs to Get Commissioned
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| Application fee | $30 |
| $10,000 surety bond premium | $30-$40 |
| Notary stamp (required) | $15-$25 |
| Notary journal (recommended) | $10-$50 |
| Total | $85-$145 |
Maximum Allowable Fees
Idaho sets a maximum of $5 per notarial act (acknowledgments, jurats, verbal oaths, and RON).
Authorized Notarial Acts
- Take acknowledgments
- Administer oaths and affirmations
- Take verifications
- Witness signatures
- Certify copies
- Protest negotiable instruments
Notary Stamp Requirements
Idaho requires a notary stamp. All notarized documents must bear your official seal.
Notarizing for Family Members
Idaho does not explicitly prohibit notarizing for family members. Avoid notarizing documents where you have a direct financial or beneficial interest.
Penalties for Notary Misconduct
The Secretary of State can revoke your commission for misconduct.
Errors and Omissions Insurance
Not required, but recommended. The Secretary of State offers a free notary training course online.
Renewal
6 years. The renewal process is the same as the initial application.
Remote Online Notarization (RON)
Idaho allows RON. Active notaries can register to perform remote online notarizations through the Secretary of State.
Becoming a Signing Agent
After receiving your commission, complete a signing agent certification program. Idaho is not an attorney state for real estate closings.
Idaho’s $10,000 bond is mid-range. Neighboring Montana requires $25,000 and an exam, Wyoming requires training and an exam but no bond, and Washington requires a $10,000 bond.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a notary exam in Idaho?
No. Idaho does not require a notary exam. Free training is available from the Secretary of State.
Do I need a surety bond in Idaho?
Yes. Idaho requires a $10,000 surety bond.
How long does an Idaho notary commission last?
6 years.
Is a notary stamp required in Idaho?
Yes. All Idaho notaries must have an official seal.
How much can an Idaho notary charge?
Idaho sets a maximum of $5 per notarial act.
Can Idaho notaries perform remote online notarizations?
Yes. Register with the Secretary of State to perform RON.
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
Related Reading
- How to Become a Notary in Montana
- How to Become a Notary in Washington
- How to Become a Notary Signing Agent
Updated May 2026. Requirements based on the Idaho Secretary of State and Idaho Code Section 51.
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