How to Become a Notary in South Dakota (2026 Guide)

Published March 22, 2023 · Updated May 21, 2026

Key Takeaways

• No exam or training required
• No surety bond required (eliminated July 2025)
• Application fee: $30 | Commission term: 6 years
• Notary stamp required with specific design rules
• Self-administered oath
• Must be 18+, an SD resident
• Processing time: 2-4 weeks

No exam or training required. Here’s how the process works.

Requirements

• Be at least 18 years old
• Be a resident of South Dakota

Disqualifying Factors

South Dakota evaluates applicants on a case-by-case basis. Criminal history and providing false information can disqualify you.

Step-by-Step Application Process

Step 1: Purchase Your Official Seal

Get a notary stamp that meets SD requirements. The word ‘Seal’ must appear if using a rubber stamp. ‘My Commission Expires’ must be outside the border, the expiration date cannot be inside the border.

Step 2: Submit Your Application

South Dakota eliminated the surety bond requirement effective July 1, 2025 (HB 1133). You no longer need to purchase a bond to become a notary.

Step 3: Complete the Application

Fill out the South Dakota Secretary of State application. Include your seal impression in the top left corner. Use the same name on both the seal and application.

Step 4: Submit by Mail

Mail your application, seal impression, and $30 filing fee to the Secretary of State. No bond is required.

How Much Does It Cost?

Item	Cost
Application fee	$30
Surety bond	Not required (eliminated July 2025)
Notary stamp (required)	$15-$25
Notary journal (recommended)	$10-$50
Total	$55-$105

How Much Can You Charge?

South Dakota does not set a maximum fee for notarial acts. Set your own rates and disclose fees before performing notarizations.

What Notarial Acts Can a South Dakota Notary Perform?

• Take acknowledgments
• Administer oaths and affirmations
• Take verifications
• Witness signatures
• Certify copies
• Protest negotiable instruments

Notary Stamp Requirements

South Dakota requires a notary stamp. The word ‘Seal’ must appear on rubber stamps. ‘My Commission Expires’ must be outside the border. The expiration date cannot be inside the border.

Can You Notarize for Family Members?

SD 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.

Do You Need E&O Insurance?

Not required, but recommended to protect against liability from errors or negligence.

Renewal

6 years. The renewal process is the same as the initial application.

Remote Online Notarization (RON)

South Dakota has authorized RON. Check with the Secretary of State for current requirements and registration.

Becoming a Signing Agent

After receiving your commission, complete a signing agent certification program. South Dakota is not an attorney state for real estate closings.

South Dakota eliminated its surety bond requirement in July 2025, joining North Dakota as a no-bond neighbor. Nebraska requires a $15,000 bond, and Wyoming eliminated its bond requirement in 2021.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a notary exam in South Dakota?

No. South Dakota does not require a notary exam or training course.

Do I need a surety bond in South Dakota?

No. South Dakota eliminated the $5,000 surety bond requirement effective July 1, 2025 (HB 1133). You do not need any bond to become a notary.

How long does a South Dakota notary commission last?

6 years.

Is a notary stamp required in South Dakota?

Yes. It must include ‘Seal’ and have the expiration outside the border.

How much can a South Dakota notary charge?

South Dakota does not set a maximum fee.

Can I use personal surety instead of a bond?

No longer needed. South Dakota eliminated the bond requirement entirely in July 2025. You do not need a commercial bond or personal surety.

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 South Dakota Compares to Neighboring States

Requirement	South Dakota	North Dakota	Minnesota	Nebraska
Bond	None	$7,500	None	$15,000
Exam	No	No	No	Yes (85%)
Training	No	No	No	No
Term	6 years	4 years	5 years	4 years
RON	Yes	Yes	Pending	Yes

South Dakota eliminated its bond requirement in July 2025 (HB 1133), joining Minnesota as no-bond states in the region. Both Dakotas offer 6-year terms. Nebraska has the highest bond ($15,000) and strictest exam (85% pass).

Related Reading

• How to Become a Notary in North Dakota
• How to Become a Notary in Nebraska
• How to Become a Notary Signing Agent

Updated May 2026. Requirements based on the South Dakota Secretary of State and SDCL 18-1.