How to become a notary in Washington
Notaries in Washington are commissioned by the Washington State Department of Licensing (DOL). 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 Washington?
- At least 18 years old
- Able to read and write English
- Live in Washington or have a place of employment or practice there
- Not disqualified under RCW 42.45.210
What are the Washington notary requirements?
| Commissioned by | Washington State Department of Licensing (DOL) |
|---|---|
| Training required | No. Not required; DOL recommends an optional notary education class. |
| Exam required | No. No exam is required. |
| Surety bond | $10,000 |
| Application fee | $40 |
| Commission term | 4 years |
| Remote online notarization | Yes; notaries with an electronic records endorsement may notarize remotely after DOL approves their software. |
Steps to become a notary in Washington
- Confirm you meet the eligibility requirements
- Buy a 4-year $10,000 surety bond from a company licensed for surety in Washington
- Sign the Oath of Office form (659009) before a notary
- Apply online through SecureAccess Washington (or by mail) with the bond, oath and $40 fee
- Optionally add the electronic records endorsement ($15) and report your software to DOL within 30 days
Apply on the official Washington site
How do you find a notary in Washington?
- 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 Washington notary lookup.