Disclosure: NotaryStyle earns from qualifying purchases as an Amazon Associate. We independently research and recommend products. When you click links to buy products, we may earn a commission at no additional cost to you. Our recommendations are not influenced by commission — we only feature products we believe provide value to notaries.
How to Become a Notary in South Dakota: Step-by-Step Guide (2026)
From the bustling corridors of Sioux Falls businesses to the quiet county clerk offices in places like Pierre and Rapid City, notaries public play an essential role in South Dakota's legal and financial ecosystem. Whether you're looking to add a professional credential to your resume, support your employer's document needs, or start a mobile notary side hustle on the prairie, becoming a South Dakota notary is more straightforward than you might think. This guide walks you through every requirement, cost, and step — straight from the South Dakota Secretary of State's current guidelines.
Disclaimer: Notary laws change periodically. Always verify current requirements with the South Dakota Secretary of State's office before applying. This article does not constitute legal advice.
Who Can Become a Notary in South Dakota?
South Dakota keeps its eligibility requirements fairly simple, but you'll want to confirm you meet all three before investing time into the process:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Be a resident of South Dakota (or employed in SD) — this is worth noting if you live across the border in Minnesota or Iowa but work in the state
- Have no felony convictions unless pardoned
That employment clause is a nice touch that not every state offers. If you commute into South Dakota for work, you can still apply even if your home address is out of state.
What You'll Need
Before diving into the application, it's smart to have everything lined up. Here's your checklist:
- A valid government-issued photo ID
- A $5,000 surety bond (typically $40–80)
- A passing score on the South Dakota notary exam
- The $30 filing fee
None of these are dealbreakers in terms of cost, and the exam is something you can prepare for without spending a dime if you study the right materials.
Step 1: Pass the Notary Exam
South Dakota requires passing a notary examination before you can submit your application. The exam covers state notary laws, notarial acts, proper identification procedures, and best practices. Don't let the word "exam" intimidate you — this isn't the bar exam. It's designed to make sure you understand the fundamentals so you don't accidentally make costly mistakes once you're commissioned.
Take the time to read through South Dakota's notary statutes and any study materials provided by the Secretary of State. Most applicants pass on their first attempt if they review the material thoroughly.
Step 2: Complete the Application
Once you've passed the exam, you'll submit your notary application to the South Dakota Secretary of State. The application asks for your full legal name, residential address, and county of residence. Double-check every field — mismatched information between your application, your bond, and your ID is one of the most common reasons for processing delays.
Step 3: Submit with Bond and Fee
Along with your completed application, you'll need to include:
- A $5,000 surety bond
- A $30 filing fee
The surety bond is not insurance for you — it's protection for the public in case you make an error that causes financial harm. You can purchase one through most insurance agencies or bond companies, and the cost is usually just a small one-time premium in the $40–80 range.
Step 4: Receive Your Commission
Processing typically takes 1–2 weeks. Once approved, you'll receive your commission certificate. Hang onto this — you'll need it to order your supplies and file your oath.
Your commission is valid for six years, which is a decently long stretch compared to some states that require renewal every three or four years. That said, don't let those six years sneak up on you.
Step 5: Get Your Notary Supplies
With your commission in hand, it's time to order your tools of the trade:
- A South Dakota notary stamp — must meet state requirements for format, ink color, and included information
- A notary record book (journal) — required by South Dakota law
Your journal is arguably your most important piece of equipment. It's your paper trail if a notarization is ever questioned, and South Dakota law requires you to maintain one. Don't cut corners here — a well-organized, bound journal with sequential entries is your best defense against liability claims.
Browse Notary StampsStep 6: File Your Oath of Office
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 it's not something you want to skip or delay. Your commission may become void if you fail to complete this properly.
Head to your county auditor's office with your commission certificate, take the oath, and get it filed. After that, you're officially in business.
Common Mistakes New South Dakota Notaries Make
Learning from others' missteps can save you a headache (or worse):
- Not filing the oath before performing acts — your commission may become void if you skip this step
- Not keeping a journal — South Dakota requires a record of every notarial act, no exceptions
- Using an incorrect stamp format — your stamp must meet South Dakota requirements exactly; non-compliant stamps can cause documents to be rejected
- Letting your commission expire — reappointment can take weeks, so start early
- Notarizing without the signer physically present — this is grounds for revocation, full stop
How Much Does It Cost?
Here's a realistic breakdown of what you'll spend out of pocket:
- Surety bond: $40–80
- Application fee: $30
- Notary stamp: $15–30
- Notary journal: $15–25
Total estimated cost: $100–165
That's your all-in cost to get commissioned and equipped for your first six-year term. Not bad for a professional credential that can open doors.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to become a notary in South Dakota?
Most people complete the entire process — from studying for the exam to filing their oath — in about 2 to 4 weeks. The Secretary of State's processing alone is typically 1–2 weeks, but you'll also need time to study, pass the exam, order your bond, and get your supplies.
Does South Dakota require a notary exam?
Yes. Unlike many states that let you apply with just a checklist, South Dakota requires you to pass a notary examination covering state laws and proper procedures before you can submit your application.
Can I perform remote online notarizations in South Dakota?
Yes. South Dakota has operational remote online notarization (RON) laws, so you can notarize documents electronically for signers who aren't physically in front of you — provided you use an approved RON platform and meet all the state's technology and identity verification requirements.
Do I need errors & omissions insurance?
It's not required by South Dakota law, but it is strongly recommended. Your surety bond protects the public, not you. If someone sues you over a notarization error, errors and omissions insurance is what covers your legal defense and any settlements. For the relatively small cost, it's a smart investment.
How much can I charge for a notarization in South Dakota?
South Dakota notaries can charge up to $5 per notarization. If you're planning to offer mobile notary services, you can also charge a travel fee — just make sure it's agreed upon with the signer beforehand.
State-Specific Notes
- Remote online notarization: South Dakota authorizes RON with an operational legal framework. If you're interested in offering online notarizations, make sure you understand the platform requirements and identity proofing rules before getting started.
- Journal requirements: South Dakota requires a notary journal for every notarial act. Keep it secure, keep it organized, and never let someone else fill in entries on your behalf.
- Six-year commission: Mark your calendar well in advance. Starting the renewal process a couple of months before expiration ensures you don't have a gap where you can't serve your clients or employer.
Ready for the next step?
Notary Signing Agent Academy — loan signing agents in South Dakota earn $75–$200 per appointment. The most comprehensive training available.
RON Pro: Remote Online Notarization — South Dakota supports remote notarization. Learn how to notarize documents online and reach clients anywhere.
How to Start a Mobile Notary Business — turn your South 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.
