Notary Public Permit Requirements in Seattle, WA

1. EIN (Employer Identification Number)

   Required if you operate as an LLC/corporation or have employees. Sole proprietor notaries with no employees may use their SSN.

   Official government source

   Free·Immediate (online)

   Free

   Immediate (online)

1. Washington Notary Public Commission

   Apply online through the Washington Department of Licensing for a 4-year notary commission. Must be a Washington resident, 18+, and pass a background check. A $10,000 bond or E&O policy is required.

   Official government source

   $30 (application fee) + bond cost·4–8 weeks

   $30 (application fee) + bond cost

   4–8 weeks

2. Washington Notary Bond or E&O ($10,000)

   Washington notaries must maintain either a surety bond or errors and omissions coverage of at least $10,000.

   Official government source

   $30–$80 for 4 years·1–3 days

   $30–$80 for 4 years

   1–3 days

3. Notary Errors & Omissions Insurance (Recommended)

   While not required in Washington, E&O insurance protects notaries from financial losses due to unintentional mistakes. Coverage of $25,000–$100,000 typically costs $40–$80/year. The National Notary Association offers bundled packages.

   $40–$80/year·Immediate

   $40–$80/year

   Immediate

1. Seattle Business License (if operating a notary business)

   If you operate a standalone notary business (notary signing agent services, mobile notary, etc.) in Seattle, you generally need a Business License from the city. If notarization is incidental to another profession (e.g., attorney, bank teller), a separate business license may not be required.

   Official government source

   $100–$500/year depending on gross receipts·1–3 weeks

   $100–$500/year depending on gross receipts

   1–3 weeks

Official Sources

• Washington — Notary Public Requirements
• Washington Secretary of State

Related Guides