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Step-by-Step Guide to Becoming a Notary Public in District of Columbia

Meet the Eligibility Requirements

To become a notary public in the District of Columbia, you must meet the following requirements:

  • Be at least 18 years old.

  • Be a citizen or permanent legal resident of the United States.

  • Be a resident of the District of Columbia, or have a primary place of employment or practice in the District of Columbia.

  • Be able to read and write English.

Complete the Notary Public Application

You need to complete the application form for a Notary Public Commission. The application can be found on the DC Office of Notary Commissions and Authentications website.

 

Link to the Application Form: 

[Notary Public Application Form](https://os.dc.gov/sites/default/files/dc/sites/os/page_content/attachments/Notary%20Application%20Form.pdf)

Obtain a Surety Bond

You are required to obtain a $2,000 surety bond from a licensed surety company. The bond serves as a guarantee of the notary's honesty and performance.

Submit the Application and Bond

Submit your completed application and the original surety bond to the Office of Notary Commissions and Authentications. You can submit these documents by mail or in person.

 

Office of Notary Commissions and Authentications: 

Office of the Secretary

441 4th Street NW, Suite 810 South

Washington, DC 20001

Pay the Application Fee

You must pay a non-refundable application fee of $75. Payments can be made by check or money order payable to the "DC Treasurer."

Complete the Training and Exam

After your application is reviewed and approved, you will be required to complete a mandatory training session and pass an exam. The training session covers the laws, regulations, and duties of a notary public in the District of Columbia.

 

Link to Training Information: 

[Notary Training Information] (https://os.dc.gov/page/becoming-notary-public-district-columbia)

Take the Oath of Office

Upon successful completion of the training and exam, you will receive a notice to appear in person to take the Oath of Office. The oath must be taken before a DC notary.

Receive Your Commission Certificate

Once you have taken the Oath of Office, you will receive your Notary Public Commission Certificate. You can then begin performing notarial acts.

 

Additional Information and Resources

For more details, you can visit the DC Office of Notary Commissions and Authentications website:

 

DC Office of Notary Commissions and Authentications: 

[Notary Public Information] (https://os.dc.gov/service/notary-commissions-and-authentications)

 

Summary of Requirements

  • Be at least 18 years old.

  • Be a US citizen or permanent legal resident.

  • Be a DC resident or have primary employment in DC.

  • Obtain a $2,000 surety bond.

  • Complete the application form.

  • Pay the $75 application fee.

  • Complete mandatory training and pass an exam.

  • Take the Oath of Office before a DC notary.

 

By following these steps and meeting all the requirements, you will be able to become a notary public in the District of Columbia.

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