North Dakota Notary Bond

The North Dakota Notary Bond is a key requirement for individuals seeking a notary public commission in the state. Notaries in North Dakota must obtain a $7,500 Notary Bond as a financial guarantee that they will perform their duties ethically and in compliance with state laws.

This bond serves as protection for the public against any financial loss resulting from a notary’s error, negligence, or misconduct. If a claim is made against the bond and found valid, the surety company compensates the affected party. However, the notary must repay the surety company for any amounts paid out.

It is important to note that the Notary Bond does not protect the notary. To safeguard themselves from personal financial liability, notaries in North Dakota are encouraged to purchase Errors and Omissions (E&O) insurance.

The North Dakota Secretary of State oversees notarial regulations, ensuring that notaries maintain professionalism and uphold public trust.

A North Dakota Notary Bond costs between $35 and $55 for a $7,500 bond (processing fees may apply). Notaries are required to obtain this bond for a four-year term and purchase it from a state-authorized surety provider. The bond must be submitted to the North Dakota Secretary of State as part of the commission application.

Beyond the bond cost, notaries should budget for additional expenses, including:

• One-time Bond Processing Fee: $100
• Notary Application Fee: $36 (paid to the North Dakota Secretary of State)
• Notary Seal or Stamp: $20 - $50, depending on the provider
• Notary Journal: $10 - $50 (optional but recommended)

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: North Dakota Notary Public Surety Bond
• Bond Amount: $7,500 (as required by the state)
• Email and Contact Information

2. Receive Your Quote

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

3. Purchase Your Bond

Once you confirm the quote, complete your purchase by paying the invoice and signing the necessary documents online. Your official bond will be emailed to you within minutes, ready for submission with your notary application.

To renew your North Dakota Notary Bond, you must purchase a new $7,500 surety bond from a state-authorized provider before your current notary commission expires.

Once you obtain the new bond, submit it along with your notary renewal application to the North Dakota Secretary of State. Completing this process ensures your notary commission remains active without any lapses.

To avoid interruptions in your notarial duties, it is important to complete the renewal process before your commission expires.

North Dakota Notary Requirements

To become a notary public in North Dakota, applicants must meet specific eligibility criteria and complete the state’s commissioning process.

To qualify as a North Dakota notary, you must:

• Be at least 18 years old
• Be a U.S. citizen or legal permanent resident
• Be a resident of North Dakota or a non-resident with a place of work or business in the state
• Be able to read and write in English
• Have no felony convictions, unless pardoned or civil rights have been restored

Application Process:

1. Obtain a $7,500 Surety Bond – The bond must be issued by a state-authorized provider and valid for a four-year term.
2. Complete the Notary Public Application – Submit the completed form to the North Dakota Secretary of State.
3. Pay the Application Fee – The current fee is $36, payable to the Secretary of State.
4. Submit Required Documents – Along with the application, provide proof of your surety bond and any additional required paperwork.
5. Receive Your Notary Commission Certificate – Once approved, you will receive your official notary commission.

Responsibilities After Commissioning:

• Use an Official Notary Seal or Stamp – This is required for notarizing documents.
• Maintain a Notary Journal – While not mandatory, keeping a journal is strongly recommended for record-keeping and legal protection.
• Follow North Dakota Notary Laws – Notaries must comply with all state regulations to ensure the integrity of notarial acts.

Meeting North Dakota’s notary requirements ensures that notaries operate legally and ethically while protecting the public. To maintain an active commission, notaries should stay informed about state regulations and renew their bond and commission before expiration.

To perform remote online notarizations (RON) or electronic notarizations (e-notarizations) in North Dakota, notaries must first hold a valid traditional notary commission, which requires obtaining a $7,500 surety bond valid for a four-year term. Follow these steps to obtain Electronic Notary Authorization:

1. Apply for Electronic Notary Authorization:

• Complete the "Electronic Notary Authorization Application" form.
• Submit the form along with the required fee to the North Dakota Secretary of State.

2. Apply for Remote Online Notary (RON) Authorization:

• After receiving electronic notary authorization, submit a separate application for RON approval.
• Provide details of your state-approved RON technology provider and ensure the platform complies with North Dakota’s requirements.
• Once approved, you will be authorized to conduct remote online notarizations.

3. Maintaining Compliance:

• Renew your electronic notary authorization and RON approval every four years, alongside your traditional notary commission.
• Stay compliant with North Dakota’s notarial laws and technology standards to ensure secure remote notarizations.