Louisiana Notary Bond

In Louisiana, notaries public must obtain a $10,000 Notary Bond as part of the commissioning process. This bond acts as a financial guarantee, ensuring notaries adhere to state laws and ethical standards.

If a notary's error, negligence, or misconduct causes financial harm, an affected party can file a claim against the bond. If the surety company compensates the claimant, the notary is responsible for repaying the amount.

While the bond safeguards the public, it does not protect the notary from personal liability. Many notaries purchase Errors and Omissions (E&O) insurance for additional coverage. The Louisiana Secretary of State regulates notarial practices and bond requirements to uphold professional integrity.

In Louisiana, notaries public are required to obtain a $10,000 surety bond, which typically costs between $35 and $55 (processing fees may be applied) for a five-year term. The exact price depends on the surety provider. To meet commission requirements, the bond must be purchased from a state-authorized provider and submitted to the Louisiana Secretary of State.

In addition to the bond, notaries should budget for other expenses, such as:

• One-time Bond Processing Fee: $100
• Notary Exam Registration: $100​
• Notary Commission Filing Fee: $35
• Notary Bond or Errors & Omissions Renewal: $20
• Notary Seal or Stamp: Approximately $20 - $50, depending on the provider​
• Notary Journal: $10 - $50 (optional but recommended for record-keeping)​
• Errors and Omissions (E&O) Insurance: Costs vary based on coverage but provide personal liability protection

Ensuring compliance with Louisiana’s notary bond and licensing requirements allows notaries to operate legally and with confidence. For the latest requirements and pricing details, visit the Louisiana Secretary of State’s website.

Easily apply using one of these convenient methods:

1. Apply for Your Bond

Choose one of the following convenient application methods:

• Online Application – Complete a secure online application anytime, 24/7, in just minutes.
• Call Us at (888)-592-6631 – Our bond specialists are available to assist you and answer any questions.

To apply, you’ll need:

• Bond Name: Louisiana Notary Public Surety Bond
• Bond Amount: $10,000 (as required by the state)
• Email and Contact Information

2. Receive Your Quote

After submitting your application, you will receive an instant bond quote. Review the details carefully, and if any adjustments are needed, our team is available to assist you.

3. Purchase Your Bond

Once you confirm the quote, finalize your purchase by completing the payment and signing the required documents online. Your official bond will be emailed to you within minutes, ready for submission with your notary application.

In Louisiana, notary bonds are valid for five years and must be renewed before expiration to maintain an active notary commission. Follow these steps to ensure a smooth renewal process:

1. Obtain a New $10,000 Surety Bond – Purchase a new bond from a state-authorized surety provider before your current bond expires.
    
2. Submit Your Bond to the Louisiana Secretary of State – File your renewed bond with the Louisiana Secretary of State’s office to meet state requirements. This step ensures your commission remains in good standing.
    
3. Pay Any Required Fees – Verify if additional filing or renewal fees apply and submit them along with your bond renewal.
    
4. Confirm Your Notary Commission Status – Once processed, check with the Louisiana Secretary of State to ensure your notary commission remains active for another five years.
    

To avoid a lapse in your commission, start the renewal process well before your bond’s expiration date.

To become a notary public in Louisiana, applicants must meet the following eligibility criteria and complete the required commissioning process.

Eligibility Requirements:

• Be at least 18 years old
• Be a resident citizen or alien of Louisiana
• Be registered to vote in the parish where seeking a commission
• Be able to read, write, and speak English
• Have no felony convictions, unless pardoned

Application Process:

1. Application to Qualify: Complete an Application to Qualify for Appointment as Notary Public and pay a $35 qualifying fee. 
2. Notary Exam Pre-Assessment: Register online for the Notary Exam Pre-Assessment ($30 test fee). This step is mandatory and must be completed before registering for the state notary exam.
3. State Notary Exam: Register online for the state notary exam ($100 registration fee). Passing this exam is required unless you are a licensed Louisiana attorney. 
4. Obtain Bond or Insurance: Secure a $10,000 surety bond, personal surety, or Errors & Omissions (E&O) insurance.​
5. Commission Documents: After passing the exam, submit the required documents, including two Oaths of Office (one filed with the Secretary of State and one with the parish clerk of court), to receive your notary commission ($35 commission fee). ​

Responsibilities After Commissioning:

• Use an Official Notary Seal or Stamp (recommended but not required)
• Maintain a Notary Journal (not required but encouraged for record-keeping)
• Follow Louisiana Notary Laws to ensure compliance with state regulations
• Renew the Notary Bond and Commission every five years

Following the enactment of the Remote Online Notarization Act (R.S. 35:621 et seq.), Louisiana began allowing notaries to register for Remote Online Notarization (RON) on February 1, 2022.

A commissioned Louisiana notary public may apply for RON authorization by completing the following steps:

1. Complete the Required Training
   • Take the state-approved online instruction course.
   • Pass the quiz and obtain a PDF certificate of completion.
      
2. Select a Remote Notary Technology Provider
   • Choose a platform that meets Louisiana's RON requirements.
   • You may select one or more providers from the approved list.
      
3. Register for RON Authorization
   • Log in to your online notary account to complete the RON registration.
   • Upload your quiz completion certificate as a PDF.
   • Pay the one-time $100 filing fee (separate from provider fees).
      
4. Set Up RON Technology
   • Work directly with your chosen provider(s) to obtain and pay for the required technology.
      
5. Receive Authorization
   • Once approved, your notary record will be updated to reflect your authorization to perform remote online notarizations.