How to become a notary in District of Columbia
Notaries in District of Columbia are commissioned by the Office of the Secretary of the District of Columbia, Office of Notary Commissions and Authentications (ONCA). Here is who can apply, what it takes and what it costs, from the state's own rules, checked November 4, 2026.
Who can become a notary in District of Columbia?
- At least 18 years old
- U.S. citizen or permanent legal resident
- Live in DC (residential), or have your primary place of business or employment in DC (business or government)
- A letter of request explaining why notary services are needed
- Two non-family references
What are the District of Columbia notary requirements?
| Commissioned by | Office of the Secretary of the District of Columbia, Office of Notary Commissions and Authentications (ONCA) |
|---|---|
| Training required | Yes. New applicants must attend the DC New Notary Public Orientation (also required for renewals expired more than 12 months). |
| Exam required | No. No exam is listed in ONCA's 2026 application guide. |
| Surety bond | $2,000 |
| Application fee | $75 |
| Commission term | 5 years |
| Remote online notarization | Yes: DC notaries with at least one year of commission can add a remote notary endorsement ($30) after approved training and selecting an authorized vendor, and must be physically in DC when notarizing. |
Steps to become a notary in District of Columbia
- Submit the online DC Notary Application
- After eligibility review, submit your letter of request
- Pay the $75 fee when approved
- Attend the New Notary Orientation
- Receive the Provisional Commission Letter, then buy supplies and a $2,000 surety bond on the ONCA form
- Email the completed DC Notary Public Oath Form to ONCA within 60 days of the provisional start date
- Receive your commission certificate by email before notarizing
Apply on the official District of Columbia site
How do you find a notary in District of Columbia?
- Banks, credit unions, shipping stores and law offices often have a notary on staff. Call ahead, because not every branch does.
- A mobile notary travels to you for a travel fee on top of the state's notarization fee.
- Bring a current government photo ID and the unsigned document. Don't sign it until the notary watches you.
- A notary checks your identity and witnesses your signature. They can't give legal advice or tell you what a document means unless they are also a lawyer.
- Check that a notary is commissioned on the official District of Columbia notary lookup.