How to Become a Notary in Louisiana
Application, fees, bond, exam, and commission term for Louisiana — with the official authority that issues commissions.
Key facts
- Commissioning authority
- Louisiana Secretary of State
- Commission term
- Non-standard — see note
- Application fee (estimated)
- $35 + exam fees
- Surety bond (estimated)
- $50,000
- Exam required
- Yes
- Education required
- No
- Remote online notarization (RON)
- In flux — verify current status
Official source: Louisiana Secretary of State
Louisiana is a civil-law outlier: commissions are lifetime and the state exam is famously demanding. A 2025 law raised the required bond to $50,000 effective February 1, 2026, and removed the errors-and-omissions alternative.
Steps to become a notary in Louisiana
- Confirm you meet Louisiana's basic eligibility (typically: 18+, state resident or employed in-state, no disqualifying convictions).
- Pass the state notary exam.
- Submit your application to the commissioning authority (estimated fee: $35 + exam fees).
- Purchase the required surety bond (estimated: $50,000) and file it per state rules.
- Once approved, receive your commission, take the oath if required, and buy your stamp and journal.
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to become a notary in Louisiana?
The state application fee is approximately $35 + exam fees, plus a $50,000 surety bond, plus your stamp and journal (typically $20–$60 from commercial vendors). Figures are estimates — confirm current fees with the state authority.
How long does a Louisiana notary commission last?
Louisiana is a civil-law outlier: commissions are lifetime and the state exam is famously demanding. A 2025 law raised the required bond to $50,000 effective February 1, 2026, and removed the errors-and-omissions alternative.
Does Louisiana require an exam or a course to become a notary?
Yes — an exam is required. No state education course is mandated.
Is remote online notarization (RON) allowed in Louisiana?
In flux — verify current status. RON rules move quickly — confirm with the commissioning authority before investing in a platform.
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Important notice
This page is informational only. Top Dollar Marketing does not perform notarizations, is not a notary service, and does not provide legal advice. Requirements, fees, and timelines change — always verify with your state's notary commissioning authority before acting.