Who needs District of Columbia Notary Bonds?
If you are applying to become a notary public in the District of Columbia, you are required to obtain a notary bond as part of your commission process. The bond must be filed with the Office of the Secretary of the District of Columbia before you can take your oath of office and begin performing notarial acts.
To qualify as a notary in DC, you must be at least 18 years old, be a U.S. citizen or permanent legal resident, and either live in the District or have a primary place of employment there. You must also be able to read and write English.
As part of the commission process, you will complete an application, pay the required filing fee, attend a mandatory orientation, obtain the required bond, and take the oath of office. Notary supplies are required after you are commissioned, and errors and omissions insurance is optional but often recommended.
How much do District of Columbia Notary Bonds cost?
District of Columbia notary bonds are issued for a five-year term. The required bond amount is set statewide at $2,000.
You do not pay the full bond amount. Instead, you pay a small premium to purchase the bond. In most cases, the premium is approximately $45 to $50 for the full five-year term.
How do I get a District of Columbia Notary Bond?
You can apply for a District of Columbia notary bond online through a licensed surety provider. The application is simple and typically takes only a few minutes to complete.
Once you submit the application and pay the premium, the bond is issued. You will then file the bond with the Office of the Secretary as part of your notary commission paperwork.
Can I get a District of Columbia Notary Bond with bad credit?
Yes. District of Columbia notary bonds do not require a credit check. Approval is not based on your credit history, which makes the process straightforward and accessible for most applicants.
How fast can I get District of Columbia Notary Bonds?
Because no credit review is required, most District of Columbia notary bonds are issued quickly. In many cases, the bond can be issued shortly after you complete the online application and payment.
Are there any local requirements?
The bond requirement applies statewide within the District of Columbia. In addition to the bond, applicants must complete the official application, pay the filing fee, attend orientation, and take the oath of office before performing any notarial duties.
If you’re unsure which bond you need, BOSS Bonds can review your licensing paperwork and help identify the correct bond at no cost.
