How to Become a Public Notary in Louisiana

Notaries are public officials with the authority to witness signatures for important transactions as well as execute acknowledgements, administer oaths, and more. In Louisiana, you must complete the licensing process before becoming a commissioned notary public according to the State Legislature. Read on to learn the requirements, step-by-step application process and bonding information.

Requirements for Louisiana Notary Publics

To become a notary public in Louisiana, you must meet the following eligibility requirements:

Be a Louisiana resident or legal alien
Be 18 years or older
Be proficient in English
Have a high school diploma or equivalent
Not be under interdiction or mentally unfit
Have no felony convictions (unless pardoned)
Meet legal requirements for each commission

How to Receive a Louisiana Notary License

If you meet the eligibility requirements, follow the six-step process below to become a notary public in Louisiana.

How to Become a Notary in Louisiana

Step 1: Complete an application to qualify

First, make sure you meet the requirements listed above and are registered to vote in the parish where you seek notary commission. Then, complete an online application to qualify and pay the $35 fee.

Step 2: Register for the notary exam pre-assessment

Once your application to qualify is approved, you’ll receive an email to register online for the notary exam pre-assessment. The LSU Center for Assessment and Evaluation will send you login instructions. After the office receives your score, you can register for the state notary exam.

Note: The pre-assessment is evaluative and does not require a passing score for exam registration.

Step 3: Take the state notary exam

After receiving your pre-assessment score, you may register online for the state notary exam. Your application, pre-assessment and registration must be completed 30 days before the exam. Since the Secretary of State's Office approval process takes about a week, it’s best to submit these well in advance.

The deadline for the pre-assessment is 37 days before the exam. The Louisiana notary exam is given only twice a year on the first Saturday of June and December.

Step 4: File a notary bond

Louisiana Revised Statutes 35:191 requires all licensed notaries to file a $10,000 surety bond before being appointed. This coverage protects your clients if your actions as a notary cause any financial harm.

You can get a Louisiana notary bond for $110 instantly with SuretyBonds.com. Or, you can bundle errors and omissions coverage with your bond for $150–$180 total. File your bond with the Clerk of Court along with the $20 fee.

Step 5: Submit your documents

You must execute two Oath of Office forms. File one of the original oath forms and your bond documentation with your parish's Clerk of Court. The SoS gets the second oath form along with your official signature page and the original or certified true copy of your bond signed by the parish clerk of court.

Step 6: Receive your license

Once all of your documents have been filed and reviewed, you will receive your notary public commission.

How to Renew Your Notary License

In Louisiana, notaries are commissioned for life according to Attorney General Opinion 1940-42. Your commission will remain valid as long as you keep your bond active.

Louisiana notary bonds have a five-year term and must be renewed. When you choose SuretyBonds.com, you'll receive renewal instructions and an invoice before your bond term ends.

How Long Does it Take to Become a Notary in Louisiana?

Due to the lengthy process and exam schedule, expect at least two months to be approved after applying to become a Louisiana notary public. Depending on when you start the application process, the time can vary. The exam is only given twice a year and your documents must be submitted and approved 30 days before the exam.

How Much Does It Cost to Get a Notary License?

The total cost of becoming a notary public in Louisiana is typically around $350–$450. Exact pricing will vary depending on the surety bond and notary supply vendors you choose. You can expect the following expenses and fees:

Application fee: $35
Pre-assessment exam fee: $30
Exam registration fee: $100
Surety bond: $110-$180*
Filing fee: $20
Notary supplies: Varies, typically $20–$50
Commission fee: $35

*This estimate reflects SuretyBonds.com notary bond rates plus E&O coverage options.

How to Become a Remote Online Notary in Louisiana

Once you have a commission certificate, you can also become a Louisiana remote online notary (RON). To apply, follow these steps:

Step 1: Complete an online course and pass the quiz to obtain your certificate.
Step 2: Choose a RON software from this list of technology providers.
Step 3: Register your online notary account, upload your certificate, and pay the $100 filing fee.
Step 4: Once your registration is approved, the official record will show your authorization to perform remote online notarizations.