What are the eligibility requirements to become a notary in ND?
To become a notary public in North Dakota, you must be at least 18 years old, a legal resident of North Dakota or have a place of business or employment in North Dakota, and be able to read and write English.
Beyond these basic qualifications, North Dakota law requires applicants to be of good character. This means you generally shouldn't have any felony convictions or other issues that could raise concerns about your trustworthiness and integrity. The Secretary of State's office will review your application and may conduct a background check to verify this. While North Dakota doesn't mandate formal training or an exam, it's your responsibility to understand the duties and responsibilities of a notary public before performing notarial acts. The Secretary of State provides a Notary Public Handbook that you should study carefully. Familiarizing yourself with North Dakota notary laws is crucial to ensure you perform your duties correctly and avoid legal complications.How much does it cost to become a notary public in North Dakota?
The cost to become a notary public in North Dakota is relatively low, typically ranging from $40 to $120, primarily encompassing the application fee and the cost of your notary stamp and journal. The application fee is $20, and the remaining costs will depend on the vendor you select for your required notary stamp and your desired record keeping journal.
The largest component of the expense is usually the notary stamp, which is required for all notarizations. Prices for these stamps can vary based on the vendor, material (wood, self-inking), and any customization you choose. It's advisable to shop around to find a stamp that meets your needs at a reasonable price. A notary journal, while not strictly mandated by North Dakota law, is highly recommended for maintaining a record of your notarizations and can add a small amount to the overall cost. Journals help protect both the notary and the public by providing documentation of each notarial act performed. Beyond the initial costs, remember to factor in the ongoing expenses related to being a notary. These might include continuing education (though not required in North Dakota, it's beneficial), ink refills for your stamp, and any fees associated with renewing your commission every six years. While these recurring costs are typically minimal, they should be considered when budgeting for your role as a notary public.What is the notary bond amount required in North Dakota?
The notary bond amount required in North Dakota is $7,500.
This surety bond protects the public from financial harm resulting from errors or omissions made by a notary public during the performance of their duties. If a notary negligently or intentionally violates their duties, causing financial loss to someone, a claim can be filed against the bond. The bond essentially guarantees that the notary will uphold their responsibilities according to North Dakota law. It's important to remember that while the bond protects the public, the notary is ultimately responsible for repaying the surety company for any claims paid out on their behalf.
The $7,500 bond must be obtained from a surety company authorized to do business in North Dakota. You will typically need to provide information about yourself, including your name, address, and the effective date of your notary commission, when applying for the bond. The cost of the bond (the premium) is a smaller percentage of the bond amount and is a one-time fee paid for the entire term of the bond, which usually aligns with the term of your notary commission. After obtaining the bond, it must be filed with the Secretary of State as part of the notary application process.
How long is a notary commission valid in ND, and how do I renew it?
A North Dakota notary public commission is valid for a term of six (6) years. To renew your commission, you must submit a renewal application to the Secretary of State's office, along with the required fee, before your current commission expires.
Expanding on that, the renewal process is very similar to the initial application process. You'll need to access the renewal application form from the North Dakota Secretary of State's website. The application will require you to reaffirm that you meet all the eligibility requirements to be a notary public in North Dakota, such as being at least 18 years old, a resident of North Dakota (or a resident of a bordering state who is regularly employed or has a place of business in ND), and able to read and write English. It is wise to begin the renewal process well in advance of your expiration date to avoid any lapse in your notarial authority. The Secretary of State's office typically sends a renewal notice to notaries a few months before their commission expires, but ultimately, it's your responsibility to track your expiration date and initiate the renewal process. Check the North Dakota Secretary of State's website for the most current fee schedule, acceptable payment methods, and any updated instructions regarding the renewal process.What are the specific duties a notary public can perform in North Dakota?
In North Dakota, a notary public is primarily authorized to administer oaths and affirmations, take acknowledgments, and perform signature witnessing. These duties serve to deter fraud and ensure the proper execution of legal documents by verifying the identity of the signer and their willingness to sign.
Notaries public act as impartial witnesses, verifying the identity of the person signing a document. Administering oaths and affirmations involves swearing individuals to the truthfulness of statements, commonly used in affidavits and depositions. Taking acknowledgments involves verifying that a signer personally appeared before the notary and acknowledged that they signed the document voluntarily. This is crucial for documents such as deeds and mortgages which are often recorded in public records. Beyond these core functions, North Dakota notaries can also certify copies of documents, provided they are not public records (which typically require certification from the official record keeper). While not specifically enumerated as a duty, it is understood that a notary may also complete a notarial certificate, which is the section of a document that the notary completes and signs to attest to the notarial act performed. These certificates must conform to North Dakota law and contain required information, such as the date of the notarization, the location, the notary’s signature, official seal, and the statement of the notarial act performed. Notaries cannot provide legal advice or perform any act that would constitute the unauthorized practice of law.Where can I find the official notary application form for ND?
You can find the official notary public application form for the state of North Dakota on the North Dakota Secretary of State's website. Specifically, look for the "Notary Public Application" PDF document within the "Forms" section of their website dedicated to notary public information.
To elaborate, the Secretary of State is the governing body responsible for overseeing and regulating notaries public in North Dakota. Consequently, all official forms and relevant information pertaining to notary applications are available through their website. Searching for "North Dakota Secretary of State Notary Public" should lead you to the correct webpage. From there, navigate to the "Forms" or "Applications" section. The application is typically a fillable PDF document you can download, complete, and then submit according to the instructions provided on the website or the form itself. It is important to ensure you are downloading the most current version of the application form to avoid any potential issues or delays in the application process. Before completing the form, carefully review the instructions and eligibility requirements also available on the Secretary of State's website. This will ensure that you meet all the necessary qualifications and provide all the required information accurately.So there you have it! Becoming a notary in North Dakota might seem like a few steps, but it's totally achievable. Thanks for reading, and we hope this guide has helped you on your journey. Feel free to pop back in anytime you have more questions – we're always here to help!