Complete the steps below to receive a notary public commission. If you have previously been commissioned as a notary public for the state of North Dakota, visit Maintain Notary Commission to find information on renewing your commission.
Complete the Notary Public Application in the FirstStop Portal.
The name provided on the application must be exactly the same as you will sign when performing notarial acts. For example, if your middle name or initial is included, your signature must include your middle name or initial when notarizing documents. However, you are not required to include your middle name or initial.
The application must include the following documents:
Notary Bond
A Notary Bond (SFN 19355) in the amount of $7,500 covering notarial acts performed during the term of your commission must be included with your application. The bond may be obtained from an insurance company of your choice.
Oath of Office
You must sign a Notary Oath of Office in the presence of a notary public and submit it with your application.
Fee - $36
The Office of the Secretary of State will provide you with a Certificate of Authorization to Purchase Notary Stamping Device form once your application is approved. This form allows you to obtain a stamping device from a vendor of your choice (see Notary Public Stamp Requirements). The stamping device will be used when performing notarial acts.
After you receive your stamping device, return an impression of the notary stamping device on the Verification of Notary Public Stamping Device form. It must be received by the Secretary of State on or before the date indicated on the Verification form.
The Secretary of State will issue a commission certificate to you after review and approval of the notary stamping device. You may begin performing notarial acts only on or after the commencement date listed on your commission certificate.
A notary public commission term is 4 years and begins at 12:00 a.m. on the commencement date listed on the commission certificate and ends at midnight on the expiration date. Notarizing documents outside of that timeframe is a violation of state law.