How to become a notary in North Dakota
Notaries in North Dakota are commissioned by the North Dakota Secretary of State. 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 North Dakota?
- At least 18 years old
- U.S. citizen or permanent legal resident
- Can read and write English
- Lives or works in North Dakota, or lives in a bordering county of a state that reciprocates with North Dakota
What are the North Dakota notary requirements?
| Commissioned by | North Dakota Secretary of State |
|---|---|
| Training required | No. The official page lists no course requirement. |
| Exam required | No. The official page lists no exam requirement. |
| Surety bond | $7,500 |
| Application fee | $36 |
| Commission term | 4 years |
| Remote online notarization | Yes; a commissioned notary may perform remote notarizations after filing a Notary Public Amendment in FirstStop naming the communication technology provider. |
Steps to become a notary in North Dakota
- Buy a $7,500 notary bond (form SFN 19355) from an insurer
- Sign the Notary Oath of Office in front of a notary
- Apply online through the FirstStop portal, uploading the bond and oath, and pay the $36 fee
- Receive a Certificate of Authorization and order a stamp from any vendor
- Return a stamp impression on the verification form by the deadline
- Receive your commission certificate and begin notarizing on the commencement date
Apply on the official North Dakota site
How do you find a notary in North Dakota?
- 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 North Dakota notary lookup.