Whether you’re working in the energy fields of the Bakken, helping clients close on farmland outside Fargo, or serving your local community in Bismarck, becoming a notary public in North Dakota opens up some genuinely useful opportunities. The Peace Garden State keeps things straightforward compared to a lot of states, but there are still a few steps you can’t skip — including education and an exam, which not every state requires. Here’s exactly how to get it done.
Disclaimer: Notary laws change periodically. Always verify current requirements with the North Dakota Secretary of State’s office before applying. This article does not constitute legal advice.
Who Can Become a Notary in North Dakota?
North Dakota keeps the eligibility bar pretty reasonable. To qualify, you need to meet these three criteria:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Be a resident of North Dakota (or employed in ND) — so even if you live across the border in Minnesota, you can still qualify through employment
- Have no felony convictions unless pardoned
That employment provision is worth highlighting. It’s a nice option if you work in North Dakota but commute from a neighboring state, which isn’t uncommon in border communities like Grand Forks or Wahpeton.
What You’ll Need
Before you dive into the application, get these items lined up so you don’t hit any delays:
- A valid government-issued photo ID
- A $7,500 surety bond (typically $40-80)
- Completion of a state-approved notary education course
- A passing score on the North Dakota notary exam
- The $36 filing fee
The surety bond isn’t insurance for you — it protects the public if you make an error. You’ll purchase it through a bonding agency, and the cost is usually just a small one-time premium, not the full $7,500.
Step 1: Complete Required Education
North Dakota requires completion of a state-approved notary education course before you can apply. This isn’t just a formality — the course covers notary laws, proper procedures, and the specific responsibilities of notaries in North Dakota. You’ll learn things like how to properly identify signers, what to do with different types of documents, and the boundaries of your authority.
The good news is that this can typically be completed online at your own pace, so you can knock it out in an evening or two without taking time off work.
Step 2: Pass the Notary Exam
After completing the education course, you’ll need to pass a notary examination. North Dakota is one of the states that actually tests your knowledge rather than just trusting you read the material. The exam covers state notary laws, notarial acts, proper identification procedures, and best practices.
Don’t let this intimidate you — if you paid attention during the education course, you should be in good shape. Study the material thoroughly and take any practice questions your course provider offers.
Step 3: Complete the Application
Once you’ve passed the exam, you’ll submit your notary application to the North Dakota Secretary of State. The application asks for your full legal name, residential address, and county of residence. Double-check everything for accuracy, because the name on your application is the name that will appear on your commission — and ideally should match your ID.
Step 4: Submit with Bond and Fee
Along with your completed application, you’ll need to include:
- A $7,500 surety bond
- A $36 filing fee
You can typically submit everything online through the Secretary of State’s website or by mail. Online submission is generally faster and lets you track the status of your application more easily.
Step 5: Receive Your Commission
Processing typically takes 1-2 weeks, which is relatively quick compared to some states. Once approved, you’ll receive your commission certificate. Hold onto this — you’ll need it.
Your commission is valid for four years, so mark your calendar because North Dakota won’t send you a reminder when it’s time to renew.
Step 6: Get Your Notary Supplies
With your commission in hand, it’s time to order your supplies. You’ll need:
- A North Dakota notary stamp — must meet state requirements for format, ink color, and included information
- A notary record book (journal) — required by North Dakota law
Don’t cut corners on the journal. Even though it might feel like extra paperwork, it’s your best protection if a notarization is ever questioned. A good chronological journal with space for all the required entries (signer name, date, type of act, document description, identification method) will save you headaches down the road.
Browse Notary StampsStep 7: File Your Oath of Office
This is the step that trips people up. Before you can perform any notarial acts, you must take the oath of office and file it with the appropriate county office. This step is mandatory, and your commission may become void if you skip it or perform notarizations before filing.
Head to your county recorder’s office, take the oath, and get it filed. It’s usually quick and painless, but don’t put it off — you’re not legally authorized to notarize anything until this is done.
Common Mistakes New North Dakota Notaries Make
- Not filing the oath before performing acts — this is the big one. Your commission may become void, and any notarizations you performed could be challenged
- Not keeping a journal — North Dakota requires a record of every notarial act, no exceptions. “I’ll remember” doesn’t count
- Using an incorrect stamp format — your stamp must meet North Dakota requirements exactly, including your name, commission number, and expiration date
- Letting your commission expire — reappointment isn’t instant, so start the process early
- Notarizing without the signer physically present — this is grounds for revocation, even if you “know” the person well
How Much Does It Cost?
Here’s a realistic breakdown of what you’ll spend out of pocket:
- Surety bond: $40-80
- Application fee: $36
- Notary stamp: $15-30
- Notary journal: $15-25
Total estimated cost: $15-$40
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to become a notary in North Dakota?
Most people get through the whole process in 1-2 weeks from application to having supplies in hand and the oath filed. The education and exam can be completed in a day if you’re motivated, and the Secretary of State processes applications quickly.
Do I really have to take an exam?
Yes. North Dakota is one of the stricter states in this regard — you need to pass a notary examination that tests your knowledge of state laws and proper procedures. It’s not there to make your life difficult; it’s to make sure you understand what you can and can’t do.
Can I perform remote online notarizations in North Dakota?
Yes. North Dakota authorizes remote online notarization (RON), which means you can notarize documents for signers who aren’t physically in front of you, as long as you use an approved technology platform and follow the state’s RON requirements. This became especially valuable in recent years and is here to stay.
Do I need errors and omissions insurance?
It’s not required by North Dakota law, but it is strongly recommended. The surety bond protects the public, not you. If someone sues you over a notarization error, E&O insurance is what covers your legal defense and any settlement. It’s relatively inexpensive and worth every penny for the peace of mind.
How much can I charge for a notarization?
North Dakota notaries can charge up to $5 per notarization. It’s not going to make you rich, but if you’re already working in a field where notarizations happen regularly — real estate, legal, banking — it’s a nice credential to have.
What happens when my four-year commission expires?
You’ll need to go through the reappointment process, which is similar to the initial application — education, exam, bond, fee, and oath. Start the process a few weeks before your expiration date so you don’t have a gap in your commission.
State-Specific Notes
- Remote notarization: North Dakota allows remote online notarization (RON), making it one of the majority of states that have embraced digital notarization permanently.
- Non-resident eligibility: If you work in North Dakota but live elsewhere, you can still become a notary — just make sure your employment documentation is in order.
- County filing: Remember that the oath of office is filed at the county level, not with the Secretary of State. Know which county you’re filing in before you go.
Becoming a notary in North Dakota is a solid professional move, whether you need it for your current job or want to offer notary services on the side. Follow the steps in order, don’t skip the oath, and keep that journal updated — you’ll be set for the next four years.
Ready for the next step?
Notary Signing Agent Academy — loan signing agents in North Dakota earn $75–$200 per appointment. The most comprehensive training available.
RON Pro: Remote Online Notarization — North Dakota supports remote notarization. Learn how to notarize documents online and reach clients anywhere.
How to Start a Mobile Notary Business — turn your North Dakota notary commission into a profitable business.
How to Market Your Notary Business — get clients from day one with proven strategies.
How to Become a Notary — our complete guide covering requirements for all 50 states.
