IdahoNotary Bond

According to Idaho Code §51-107, Idaho requires a $10,000 notary bond. This one-time premium covers your entire 6-year commission period. Most applicants qualify for instant approval.

Idaho notary commissions are valid for 6 years, longer than most states. You can reapply for a new 6-year commission up to 90 days before your current commission expires. Idaho does not technically "renew" commissions—you simply submit a new application with a new bond and the $30 fee. The good news: you do not need to purchase a new notary seal/stamp if you already have one from your previous commission.

The Idaho Secretary of State charges a $30 filing fee for notary public commissions. However, Idaho state employees who are seeking a notary commission as an employment requirement are exempt from this fee. State employees must obtain their bond through the Risk Management Program in the Department of Administration rather than a private insurance agent.

No. Idaho does not require notary applicants to pass an examination or complete any pre-commission education courses. However, you must be at least 18 years old, able to read and write English, and be an Idaho resident. The Idaho Secretary of State does provide a comprehensive Notary Public Handbook and free online training resources to help notaries understand their duties and responsibilities.

Yes! Idaho notary bonds typically qualify for instant approval with no credit check. Because the bond amount is relatively moderate ($10,000) and the risk is low, most surety companies offer guaranteed approval regardless of credit score. Your credit will not affect your ability to obtain an Idaho notary bond or the approval timeline.

Idaho hit 2 million residents in 2024 for the first time, with five cities ranking among the nation's top 100 fastest-growing: Nampa, Kuna, Post Falls, Meridian, and Caldwell. Migration from California, Washington, and Oregon has driven 16-21% population growth in these cities since 2020. This explosive growth creates enormous demand for notary services—real estate closings, business formations, estate planning, vehicle transfers, and more. Idaho notaries, especially mobile notaries, benefit from this demographic boom.

Micron Technology, headquartered in Boise since 1978, is a global leader in semiconductor manufacturing (DRAM, NAND, SSDs). Micron's $200 billion U.S. expansion includes two new leading-edge fabs in Idaho expected to create over 17,000 new jobs. This semiconductor boom generates substantial notarial demand for employment agreements, HR documents, corporate resolutions, facility leases, construction contracts, and supplier agreements. Notaries serving Boise's tech corridor handle high-volume corporate work.

Idaho produces nearly one-third of the nation's potatoes (143 million cwt annually, worth $1.25 billion), making it the #1 potato-producing state. Agriculture generates $11.3 billion in total cash receipts (2024), representing 9.7% of state GDP. Idaho notaries in rural areas frequently handle agricultural contracts, equipment financing, land leases, mineral rights agreements, estate planning for multi-generational farms, and USDA loan documents. The agricultural sector provides steady, year-round notarial work.

Idaho does not require E&O insurance, but it is highly recommended. While your $10,000 surety bond protects the public (and the surety seeks reimbursement from you if you make an error), E&O insurance protects YOU. E&O insurance covers your legal defense costs and valid claims without seeking reimbursement. Coverage of $25,000-$50,000 typically costs $40-75 annually—a small investment for significant liability protection, especially if you serve high-value transactions in Boise's tech or real estate markets.

Boise (250,000+ residents) leads in notary demand due to Micron Technology, financial services, government offices, and booming real estate. Meridian (139,740 residents, +18.6% growth since 2020) has the highest total growth, creating enormous real estate closing volume. Nampa (117,350), Caldwell, Idaho Falls, Pocatello, Coeur d'Alene, and Twin Falls also offer strong opportunities. Rural agricultural areas provide steady farm-related document work, while resort communities like Sun Valley need seasonal notaries for vacation property transactions.

First, purchase a $10,000 Idaho notary bond from a licensed insurance agent or surety company. Next, complete the Notary Public Application form (available from sos.idaho.gov) and have it notarized by a current Idaho notary. Submit the notarized application, the original bond, and the $30 filing fee to the Idaho Secretary of State at 700 West Jefferson Street, Boise, ID 83720. Once approved, you'll receive your commission certificate. Then purchase an official notary seal/stamp and record book before performing any notarial acts.

Idaho has authorized remote online notarization (RON) under specific rules. Idaho notaries must obtain additional authorization from the Secretary of State to perform RON, which requires using approved technology platforms that meet state security standards. Traditional in-person electronic notarization (eNotarization) is also available. The Notary Training resources on sos.idaho.gov provide comprehensive guidance on electronic and remote notarization requirements, approved platforms, and compliance procedures.