Notary Public in District of Columbia
Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for DC. Updated with 2024 BLS OEWS wage data.
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route How to become a notary public in District of Columbia
To become a Notary Public in the District of Columbia, applicants must be at least 18 years old, a U.S. citizen or permanent legal resident, and either a DC resident or have a primary place of business or employment in DC. The licensing body is the District of Columbia Office of Notary Commissions and Authentications (ONCA). After submitting an online application and paying a $75 fee, new applicants must attend a mandatory orientation session. A $2,000 surety bond is required for most applicants, along with a notary seal embosser, jurat stamp, impression inker, and notary journal. The entire process typically takes 45-60 days, and commissions are valid for five years.
checklist District of Columbia requirements
| Licensing body | District of Columbia Office of Notary Commissions and Authentications (ONCA) |
| State license | Required |
| Education | Must attend a mandatory orientation session after application approval. New e-notary applicants must also complete an e-notary training course through an outside vendor. |
| Exam | Oral examination (for new applicants or those whose commission lapsed over 12 months) |
| Application fee | $75 |
| Renewal | Every 5.0 years |
| Notes | Minimum age 18. Must be a U.S. citizen or permanent legal resident. Must be a resident of DC or have a primary place of business/employment in DC. A $2,000 surety bond is required for most applicants (DC government employees are exempt). A notary seal embosser, jurat stamp, impression inker, and notary journal are required. |
Source: District of Columbia Office of Notary Commissions and Authentications (ONCA)