A notary public is someone who acts as a witness to the identity of a person who needs to get an official document signed.
The Indiana Secretary of State licenses new notaries in Indiana.
Looking for a little more information on duties and responsibilities of a notary public Indiana? Check out the Duties and Responsibilities page.
How to Become a Notary Public in Indiana
To become an Indiana Notary, you will need to meet the initial requirements, complete an application, purchase a surety bond, and submit your application along with fees. The exact steps are listed below:
Step #1: Meet initial requirements
- Must be a citizen of the United States
- Must be a legal resident of Indiana
- Must be at least 18 years old
- Must not have been convicted of a crime resulting in more than 6 months imprisonment
If you qualify to become a notary in Indiana, start your application at the Secretary of State’s website.
The site should walk you through the whole process, but the following steps will give you an outline of what to expect:
Step #2: Complete Indiana Notary Public Application
Do this online at the Secretary of State’s website.
Apply to become an Indiana notary.
Fill out the application form and pay the $11.22 application fee.
It is suggested you use one of the following when completing your Indiana Notary Public Application:
- Both first and middle names (e.g. John Robert Doe)
- First name with middle initial (e.g. John R. Doe)
- Initial and middle name along with surname (e.g. J. Robert Doe)
- DO NOT USE both a first and middle initial (e.g. J. R. Doe)
Step #3: Take the oath of office
You can do this online through the Secretary of State’s website.
Step #4: Purchase an Indiana Notary Bond
An Indiana Notary Bond guarantees you will faithfully perform your duties as a notary public in Indiana. If you fail to perform your duties, someone can make a claim against your bond.
The Indiana Notary Bond amount is set at $25,000.
*Originally the bond amount was $5,000, but as of July 1, 2018 the Notary Bond amount increased to $25,000. See more details.
Most people pay between $50-$100 for their bond. You can purchase your bond from a surety bond company.
Step #5: Submit your Indiana Notary Bond
Submit through the Secretary of State website. Upon approval, you will be mailed your official Indiana Notary Commission Certification. Your notary commission lasts 8 years.
There is no automatic reappointment in Indiana. To renew your commission, you must follow the same procedures for a new appointment.
Step #6: Make sure you use a seal in all official acts of the notary public Indiana
You can purchase seals from various retail or online stores, such as Anchor Rubber Stamp.
The Indiana Notary Fee Rule
The maximum amount that an Indiana Notary Public may charge someone is $2 per each notarization.
For further questions, contact the Secretary of State at 317-232-6532 or view the Indiana Notary FAQ page.
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