Notary Public Underwriters Blog
Oklahoma Senate Bill 1028: Key Notary Law Changes Effective January 1, 2026
- Details
- Published: December 29, 2025
Oklahoma has enacted Senate Bill 1028, a significant update to the state’s notary public laws that introduces background checks, increases the bond amount, and adjusts application and filing fees for notaries. These changes take effect January 1, 2026, and affect anyone applying for or renewing a notary commission in the state.
Background Checks Now Required
One of the most impactful provisions of SB 1028 is a mandatory national criminal history record check for all notary applicants—both new applicants and those renewing commissions. Under the new law:
- The Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation (OSBI) will electronically obtain fingerprints for each applicant.
- Applicants are required to pay a fee of up to $50 for a background check, or the cost of the search, whichever is lower.*
- OSBI will deliver results to the Secretary of State within 14 working days.
- The OSBI may contact the FBI to obtain necessary records.
* An additional processing fee may be required.
Notary Bond Increases to $10,000
Senate Bill 1028 raises the notary bond amount:
- Current bond: $1,000 (before 1/1/26)
- New bond requirement: $10,000 (on or after 1/1/26)
It is important to note that current notaries are not required to increase their bond mid-commission. The $10,000 bond requirement applies only to new commissions and renewals filed on or after January 1, 2026.
Adjustments to State Fees
SB 1028 also updates notary-related fees across several categories. New fees that take effect January 1, 2026 include:
- Commission application fee increased from $25 to $50
- Renewal application fee increased from $20 to $45
- Same-day filing service fee increased from $25 to $50
- Notary bond filing fee increased from $10 to $25
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