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In this comprehensive guide on how to become a notary in Idaho, we lay out the roadmap to achieving this goal. With easy-to-follow, actionable steps, we’ll help you navigate this intriguing process, turning the complex into simple.
Whether you’re looking to serve your community or generate additional income, this article will offer everything you need to know to get started.
Recommended: Interested in getting started? Have a look at the National Notary Association’s packages, which include all state-required notary supplies and a surety bond, plus six years of notary hotline phone support.
Become a Notary in Idaho
In order to become a notary in Idaho, you will need to complete a few simple steps.
Step 1: Meet the Basic Requirements
To become an Idaho notary, there are only four basic requirements that you will need to satisfy:
- Be 18 years old at a minimum
- Be able to read and write in English.
- Reside, or be primarily employed in, the state of Idaho
- Be a U.S. citizen or permanent legal resident
If you satisfy all of the Idaho notary requirements above, you’re eligible to continue on to the next step in the process of getting commissioned as a notary public in Idaho.
Step 2: Purchase a $10,000 Surety Bond
All notaries public in Idaho are required to purchase a $10,000 notary bond, which can be done by contacting a licensed surety company.
There are two key details to pay attention to when obtaining your notary bond:
- Duration — Your notary bond must last six years, which is the entire duration of your term of office as an Idaho notary public
- Your name — Your name should appear identically on both your surety bond and application
Note: This bond is not insurance protection for you but for the Idaho public in the event that they suffer financial harm due to the negligent performance of your notary duties. To protect yourself, you’ll need to obtain Errors and Omissions (E&O) insurance.
Recommended Course
Have a look at the National Notary Association’s packages, which include all state-required notary supplies and a surety bond, plus six years of notary hotline phone support.
Step 3: Purchase a Course (Optional)
Even though this step is not a legal requirement, you should note that several Idaho notary applicants choose to invest in a notary course. This is because it can offer several benefits, such as:
- Understanding the Law: Notary laws can be complex and vary from state to state. A course can help ensure that notaries fully understand relevant Idaho laws and how to apply them correctly
- Professional Development: A course can enhance professional skills, making a notary more effective and competent in their role
- Reducing Liability: By better understanding the rules and best practices, notaries can reduce the risk of making errors that could result in legal action
- Increased Confidence: A training course can boost a notary’s confidence by giving them a solid foundation of knowledge and expertise to draw from
- Staying Updated: Laws and procedures change over time. A course can help notaries stay current with any changes in notary regulations and practices
So, while it’s not mandatory in Idaho, many aspiring notaries find value in such courses. It’s a personal decision based on individual comfort and professional goals.
Step 4: Complete the Notary Public Application Form
Once you have your surety bond, you’ll be ready to complete your Notary Public Application Form and get it notarized.
You will then need to submit your notarized application form, signed bond, and a $30 application fee to the following address:
Idaho Secretary of State
P.O. Box 83720
Boise, ID 83720-0080
If there are no problems with your application, the Idaho Secretary of State should shortly issue your Notary Certificate, which will allow you to buy an official stamp.
Once you have purchased your stamping device your commission is complete.
Note: If you want to be able to perform remote notarizations, you will also be required to file an “Addition of Electronic or Remote Online Notary” amendment on the Secretary of State’s website or file the Authorization for Electronic Notarization by mail with a $20 manual processing fee.
Step 5: Protect Yourself with Errors and Omissions Insurance
While not required by law, it’s a good idea to consider protecting yourself with Errors and Omissions (E&O) insurance.
This type of insurance provides coverage for any potential mistakes or omissions that you might make as you perform notarial acts. It’s an extra layer of protection that can give you peace of mind while operating for a relatively low opportunity cost.
Step 6: Equip Yourself With the Necessary Supplies
Once your commission is approved, get yourself set up with the necessary supplies. These include a notary seal stamp and an Idaho notary journal.
The notary seal is used to authenticate your notarial acts, and the record book is for logging all the services you provide.
Recommended: Interested in getting started? Have a look at the National Notary Association’s packages, which include all state-required notary supplies and a surety bond, plus six years of notary hotline phone support.
How to Become a Notary in Idaho FAQ
How much does a notary bond cost in Idaho?
The cost of a $10,000 surety bond varies depending on the provider, though should typically fall somewhere in the range of $30–$100 per year. However, prices are always fluctuating so it’s advisable to check with insurance companies or bonding agencies for the most up-to-date information.
How do I become an online notary in Idaho?
If you want to be able to perform electronic notarial acts, you’ll need to file either the Addition of Electronic or Remote Online Notary amendment online or the Authorization for Electronic Notarization by mail alongside the standard notary application. For a better look into the standard notary process in Idaho, see our article on How to Become a Notary in Idaho.
How long does an Idaho notary commission last?
In Idaho, a notary commission typically lasts for six years. However, unlike in many other states, commissions aren’t renewed, notaries public just complete the initial application process again and get a new bond. For more information on the general application process, see our article on How to Become a Notary.
What are the basic requirements to become an Idaho notary?
In Idaho, notaries must be at least 18 years old, be an Idaho resident (or be employed in Idaho), be able to read and write, and be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident. After meeting these basic requirements, each notary applicant will then need to complete the Idaho notary process in order to get commissioned.
Do I need to take a training course or exam to become an Idaho notary?
Notaries public do not need to complete any mandatory notary training or pass an exam in order to get commissioned in Idaho. That being said, education courses can be really helpful for applicants trying to get to grips with their role and enhance their notarial skills/knowledge.
For all related articles, have a look at our How to Become a Notary page.