Washington Notary Public Bond

What Is the Washington Notary Public Bond?

The Washington Notary Public Bond is a $10,000 surety bond required by the Washington Department of Licensing under RCW 42.44.080. The bond guarantees that the notary will faithfully perform their official duties. If a notary causes financial harm through misconduct, negligence, or fraud, the injured party can make a claim against the bond for up to $10,000.

Washington also authorizes Electronic Notarization. Whether performing traditional or electronic notarizations, the same $10,000 bond applies to both commission types.

The bond protects the public — not the notary. If the surety pays a claim, the notary is personally liable to reimburse the surety in full.

Who Needs This Bond in Washington?

• All notary applicants in Washington must file a $10,000 bond with the DOL before a commission is issued.
• Traditional and electronic notaries — both commission types require the same $10,000 bond under RCW 42.44.
• Renewing notaries must maintain continuous bond coverage throughout the 4-year commission term.

How to Get Bonded — Step by Step

1. Apply for your notary commission through the Washington DOL online licensing portal.
2. Obtain your surety bond. Click "Get Your Bond Now" on this page to apply. Most applicants are approved instantly.
3. File your oath of office and bond. Submit the original bond form and your signed oath of office to the DOL along with your $30 application fee.
4. Receive your commission certificate. The DOL issues your commission once all requirements are verified.
5. Purchase your notary stamp or seal from an authorized vendor after receiving your commission certificate.

Renewal & Continuous Bond Coverage

Washington notary commissions run for 4-year terms. Your surety bond must cover the entire commission period without gaps. Begin the renewal process 30–60 days before your commission expires. Both your commission and bond must be renewed simultaneously through the DOL portal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a surety bond required for all Washington notaries?

Yes. RCW 42.44.080 requires every notary public in Washington to file and maintain a $10,000 surety bond with the Department of Licensing. The commission will not be issued without proof of the bond.

Do I need a separate bond for electronic notarizations?

No. The same $10,000 bond covers both traditional and electronic notarization under Washington law. If you hold both a traditional and an electronic commission, one bond satisfies both requirements.

What does the bond actually protect?

The bond protects members of the public who suffer financial loss because of your error, misconduct, or willful wrongdoing as a notary. It does not protect you from liability — that is what notary E&O insurance is for.

How fast can I get a Washington notary bond?

Most applicants receive instant approval and a same-day bond certificate. The bond can be issued electronically and is ready to file with the DOL within minutes of purchase.

Related: All Washington surety bonds · What is a surety bond? · How surety bond costs are calculated