How to Become a Notary in Idaho

What Are the Requirements to Become a Notary in Idaho? 

Eligibility

To become a notary in Idaho, you must meet the following requirements:

• Be at least 18 years old
• Be able to read and write English
• Be a citizen or permanent legal resident of the United States
• Be a resident of, or have a place of employment or place of practice in, Idaho

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How to Apply to Become a Notary in Idaho

If you meet the eligibility requirements to become a notary in Idaho, follow these steps to apply for your notary commission:

Step 1: Order Your Idaho Notary Public Bond & Supplies. 

Idaho law requires all notary applicants to obtain a $10,000 surety bond valid for the full 6-year term. The bond protects the public from financial harm caused by notarial errors or misconduct. Bonds can be obtained through providers like Notary Public Underwriters of Idaho.

When you visit our Become a Notary page, you’ll notice that all of our packages include the notary bond and notary stamp—ensuring you don't forget the state-mandated items.

Next, you’ll complete our online application process to confirm your eligibility for an Idaho notary commission and help us fulfill your order. Once that’s done, you’ll customize your notary package by choosing your stamp case color and selecting any additional supplies you may need.

While not required by law, we strongly recommend purchasing notary E&O insurance. Many notaries mistake E&O insurance for a notary bond, but they serve different purposes. The notary bond protects the public, and if a claim is made, you must repay the surety company.

Notary E&O insurance protects you, the notary, by covering costs related to unintentional mistakes—without a deductible and no repayment required. Without E&O coverage, you could be personally responsible for legal or financial consequences.

After checkout, your notary bond will be available for download and will be needed for the next step.

Step 2: Review and Sign Your Notary Bond.

If you used our online application process, you should have already downloaded the bond. If not, log in to your account and download it from the "Notary Bond" tab. Carefully review the information on your notary bond for accuracy. Sign at the red “X” exactly as your name is printed on the top line. This is how your commission and notary supplies will be issued.

Step 3: Complete the Idaho Notary Application.

Visit the Secretary of State's website to fill out your notary application online. Make sure your name matches exactly as it appear on your notary bond. Once finished, print the application and have the Oath of Office notarized.

Step 4: File Your Paperwork.

Send your original signed notary application, notary bond and $30 filing fee to the Secretary of State. Mail this to:

Secretary of State
PO Box 83720
Boise, ID 83720-0080

Step 5: Receiving Your Order.

Once you receive your notary commission certificate, email a copy of it to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. Upon receipt of your commission certificate, we will manufacture your notary supplies and ship them within three business days. Once your supplies arrive, you may begin performing your duties as a notary!

How Much Does It Cost to Become a Notary in Idaho? 

The $10,000 notary bond is $50 with Notary Public Underwriters of Idaho, and the filing fee is $30. You will also need to purchase a notary stamp so that you can carry out your duties. These vary in price depending on the style you like. Below is a breakdown of our most popular package for becoming a notary. Please note that the state filing fee is not included.

Idaho Notary Public FAQs

Do I Need a Notary Bond in Idaho?

Yes. Idaho requires a $10,000 surety bond as part of the application.

What Is a Notary Bond?

All Idaho applicants must obtain a $10,000 surety bond, also known as a notary bond, from an approved bonding agency such as Notary Public Underwriters of Idaho. This bond protects the public from financial loss caused by notarial misconduct.

Many notaries think that the bond is insurance that protects them; that is not the case. The bond is posted to cover damages incurred by the victim of the notary’s negligence or malfeasance. If a successful claim is made against the notary’s bond, the notary will have to pay the surety company back and cover any losses in excess of $10,000 as well.

To protect yourself, you should look into purchasing Errors and Omissions Insurance (“E&O”). E&O policies protect you, the notary, should someone make a claim against you. It is not mandatory to have E&O insurance when applying.

How Do I Obtain a Notary Bond in Idaho?

Visit our Become a Notary page to purchase the notary bond and other state-required items. 

Not a new applicant? Visit our Renew Commission page!

Do I Need to Take a Notary Training Course or Exam in Idaho?

No, Idaho does not currently require applicants to complete a training course or pass an exam to become a notary. However, the Idaho Secretary of State offers a training course on their website, as required by law. You can also access the Idaho Notary Handbook to better understand your duties. You can also explore additional training options on our education page. While not mandatory, these resources are highly recommended to help you strengthen your knowledge and perform your notarial duties with confidence.

Where Can I Perform Notarizations?

An Idaho notary can perform notarial acts anywhere within the state’s borders.

How Long Does an Idaho Notary Commission Last?

An Idaho notary commission is valid for six years. To maintain your status as a notary, you will need to renew your commission before it expires. 

How Do I Renew My Notary Commission in Idaho?

To renew your notary commission in Idaho, you must meet the same eligibility requirements, obtain a new notary bond and supplies, and reapply. Begin the renewal process at least three months before your current commission expires to avoid potential delays.