District of Columbia notary public
UnconfirmedWhat it takes to become a notary public in District of Columbia, from the state's official commissioning authority.
- Written exam
- Unconfirmed
- Administered by
- Office of Notary Commissions and Authentications (ONCA), Office of the Secretary of DC
- Commission term
- 5 years
- Surety bond
- $2,000
- Notes
- Sources conflict: some say no written exam is required (familiarity with the Notary Public Handbook expected), others describe a required oral examination on powers/duties/liabilities for new (non-renewal) applicants. Bond waived for DC-government-only commissions. Recommend confirming directly with ONCA (202-727-3117) or the current Notary Public Handbook on os.dc.gov before treating as settled fact.
Some District of Columbia details were ambiguous on the official site when we researched this (July 2026) — double-check specifics with the commissioning authority before you rely on them.
Preparing to be a District of Columbia notary
District of Columbia doesn't require a written exam, but the responsibility is real. PrepTempo's Notary course confirms you understand notarial acts, identifying signers, and how to avoid unauthorized practice of law before you take on the liability.
Start the Notary course →Official sources
Educational information only, researched July 2026 — not legal advice. Requirements change; confirm with the District of Columbia commissioning authority. PrepTempo is not affiliated with any state authority or the National Notary Association.