Louisiana notary public
Exam requiredWhat it takes to become a notary public in Louisiana, from the state's official commissioning authority.
- Written exam
- Exam required
- Administered by
- Written state notary examination administered by the Louisiana Secretary of State (offered regionally each June and December); not required for Louisiana-licensed attorneys
- Commission term
- Life (commissioned for life; bond must be renewed every 5 years to remain active) years
- Surety bond
- $50,000 surety or personal bond, renewed every 5 years ($20 filing fee); effective Feb 1, 2026 E&O insurance no longer accepted in lieu of the bond, and bonds under $50,000 no longer accepted
- Notes
- Louisiana is a notable exception requiring a written notary exam and the highest bond amount among the 10 states studied; commission itself is lifetime but requires periodic bond renewal (every 5 years) to remain active. Must be commissioned in parish of residence.
Preparing to be a Louisiana notary
Louisiana requires a written exam, and PrepTempo's Notary course covers the notarial concepts it tests — notarial acts, identifying signers, journals and seals, and unauthorized practice of law. Study your Louisiana statute on top of the core.
Start the Notary course →Official sources
Educational information only, researched July 2026 — not legal advice. Requirements change; confirm with the Louisiana commissioning authority. PrepTempo is not affiliated with any state authority or the National Notary Association.