How to Become a Notary in Washington
Complete step-by-step guide — requirements, costs, timeline, and how to build a profitable notary business in Washington.
Washington Notary Requirements at a Glance
Age & Residency
18+, WA resident
Bond Required
$10,000
Exam
Not Required
Application Fee
$30
Step-by-Step: Becoming a Notary in Washington
Follow these steps to get your Washington notary commission
Meet Basic Eligibility Requirements
Before applying, ensure you meet these requirements:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Washington state resident
- No disqualifying criminal convictions
- Be able to read and write English
Complete Professional Training (Highly Recommended)
Washington doesn’t require formal training, but professional education significantly increases your success rate and earning potential.
✅ Our training covers Washington notary laws, correct notarization procedures, avoiding liability, and building a profitable business. View Washington Training Courses →
Purchase Your Notary Bond
Washington requires a $10,000 surety bond for your 4 years term.
Bond Amount: $10,000
Typical Cost: $50–75
Where to Buy: Licensed surety companies or insurance agencies
Submit Your Application
Complete and submit your notary application to the Washington Department of Licensing.
Application Fee: $30
Processing Time: 2–4 weeks
Commission Term: 4 years
Receive Commission & Order Supplies
Once approved, order your official supplies:
- Official Notary Stamp — name, commission number, expiration
- Notary Journal — required or strongly recommended
- Additional Supplies — ink pads, embosser, certificates, business cards
💰 Supply Costs: Budget $50–150 for quality notary supplies.
Start Your Notary Business!
You’re now a commissioned notary in Washington. Here’s how to start earning:
Quick Start (Part-Time)
- • List on notary directories
- • Network with local businesses
- • Join signing agent platforms
- • Earn $500–$2K/month
Scale to Full-Time
- • Become a loan signing agent
- • Build title company relationships
- • Implement marketing systems
- • Earn $50K–$100K+/year
⚠️ Special Requirements for Washington:
Washington notaries file through the Department of Licensing (not Secretary of State). Must submit bond to the Department of Licensing.
Total Cost Breakdown
What You’ll Spend to Become a Washington Notary
💰 Return on Investment: Washington mobile notaries earn $60,000–$100,000+ annually. Seattle metro’s tech economy drives some of the highest home prices in the nation.
Seattle’s tech corridor (Amazon, Microsoft, Meta, Google) creates massive housing demand. Bellevue, Redmond, and Kirkland have some of the most expensive real estate in America — meaning higher-value loan signings.
What Our Students Say
Get Professional Washington Notary Training
Increase your success rate and learn how to build a profitable notary business
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- Complete WA requirements guide
- Step-by-step application process
- How to get your first clients
- Pricing & marketing basics
6-Figure Mobile Notary
- Everything in Starter Course
- Loan signing agent training
- Title company relationships
- Advanced marketing & SEO
- 6-figure business systems
- Signing service database (200+)
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Expand Your Notary Income
Add specialized services to maximize your earning potential in Washington
Become a Notary Anywhere in Washington
Our training helps aspiring notaries in every Washington city
How to Become a Notary in Other States
We offer state-specific guides and training across the country:
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to become a notary in Washington?
The typical timeline is 2–4 weeks. No exam is required, so the process is relatively quick.
How much does it cost?
Total costs range from $100 to $400, including application fee ($30), bond ($50–75), supplies ($50–100), and optional training ($27–237).
How much can I earn as a notary in Washington?
Washington mobile notaries earn $60,000–$100,000+ annually. Seattle metro’s tech economy drives some of the highest home prices in the nation.
Do I need training?
Washington does not require formal training. Professional education significantly increases your success rate, earning potential, and helps avoid costly mistakes.
How do I renew my commission?
Renew before your current commission expires through the Washington Department of Licensing. Your commission is valid for 4 years.
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This guide provides general information about becoming a notary in Washington. Requirements may change. Always verify current requirements with the Washington Department of Licensing. This is not legal advice.