How Do You Become An Online Notary In North Dakota?
Since August 1, 2019, North Dakota Notaries have had the opportunity to enroll for remote online notarizations (RONs). The process to become a remote Notary in North Dakota is straightforward. Just follow these steps:
- Maintain an active commission as a traditional Notary Public.
- Establish a contract with a reputable RON technology provider like Blue Notary.
- Email [email protected] to inform the Secretary of State of your intention to conduct remote notarizations and include the name of the RON provider you plan to utilize.
Once you’re authorized to perform RON in North Dakota and approved with your platform, you can start performing Remote Online Notarizations. Be sure to stay current with all your state’s local Online Notary laws!
How to Become a Traditional Notary in North Dakota (Get your Notary Commission)
To apply for a North Dakota Notary Commission, follow these essential steps:
- Meet State Requirements:
- Ensure you meet all the requirements specified by the state (see below).
- Complete Application Form:
- Fill out the application form thoroughly.
- Administer Oath and Notarize Signature:
- Take the completed form to a commissioned Notary, who will administer your oath of office and notarize your signature on the requirements affidavit section.
- Purchase a Surety Bond:
- Obtain a $7,500 surety bond.
- Submit Application, Bond, and Fee:
- Submit your application, bond, and a $36 fee to the Secretary of State.
- Receive Certificate and Verification Form:
- Await the issuance of your Certificate of Authorization and the Verification of Notary Stamping Device Form from the Secretary of State.
- Acquire an Official Notary Seal:
- Purchase an official Notary seal and present your authorization to your stamp vendor.
- Stamp Verification Form:
- Place an impression of the stamp on the Verification Form and return it to the Secretary of State by the specified date.
- Notary Commission Issuance:
- If your application is approved, the Secretary of State will issue your Notary commission.
- Consider a Notary Journal (optional but recommended):
- While optional, obtaining a Notary journal for meticulous record-keeping is strongly recommended.
- Explore E&O Insurance (optional but recommended):
- Consider acquiring Errors and Omissions (E&O) insurance to limit your financial exposure during your Notary duties (optional but strongly recommended).
Once you have completed all these steps and obtained your commission you are ready to start performing notarial acts as a commissioned notary in North Dakota.
What are the requirements to become a Notary in North Dakota?
To qualify as a Notary Public applicant in North Dakota, you must meet the following requirements:
- Be at least 18 years old.
- Hold U.S. citizenship or permanent legal residency.
- Possess proficiency in reading and writing English.
- Be a resident of the state or an employee in or resident of a border county that extends reciprocity to Notaries.
For further details, consult the North Dakota Notary Notes or the North Dakota SoS Website.
Are Online Notaries Legal in North Dakota?
Yes, North Dakota permits online notarization in compliance with N.D.C.C. § 44-06.1-13.1. Applicants can swiftly navigate the notarization process, obtaining legal advice promptly.
North Dakota Online Notary FAQ’s
Requirements for Becoming a Remote Notary in North Dakota
In order to perform online notarizations in North Dakota, certain prerequisites must be met. These requirements include holding a current commission as a traditional Notary Public in the Peace Garden State, and fulfilling the following conditions: being at least 18 years of age, being a citizen or permanent legal resident of the U.S., residing within the state, working as an employee within the state, or living in a border county that extends reciprocity to Notaries, and having proficiency in reading and writing English.
Once you possess a traditional commission, you can notify the Secretary of State about your intent to conduct remote notarizations. This can be done by sending an email to [email protected], or by mailing a letter to 600 E Boulevard Avenue, Dept 108, Bismarck ND 58505-0500, or via fax at (701) 328-0107.
Training Requirements or Examination for Online Notaries
No, North Dakota does not mandate training or an exam for individuals seeking to become remote Notaries in the state.
Tools and Technology for Online Notarizations in North Dakota:
Remote Notaries in North Dakota are required to have specific tools and technology at their disposal, including a computer, webcam, microphone, and a secure internet connection. Additionally, they must select a Remote Online Notarization (RON) provider. The Secretary of State approved RON technology providers like BlueNotary.
Furthermore, Remote Notaries need an electronic seal, an electronic journal, and a digital certificate containing their electronic signature, all compliant with their chosen RON platform.
Is an Additional Surety Bond Required?
No, North Dakota Remote Notaries do not need an additional surety bond, as they are covered by the $7,500 surety bond already required for their traditional commission.
E&O Insurance in North Dakota
While not obligatory, the acquisition of errors and omissions (E&O) insurance policies is highly recommended for Notaries in North Dakota. These policies provide essential protection in cases where errors may occur during the notarization process, offering valuable peace of mind and financial security.
What to Expect as a Notary?
As in other professions, the amount of work an online notary receives can vary widely. Generally, the busiest time is tax season, when documents such as tax returns need to be signed and notarized. However, there is also a steady demand throughout the year from businesses and individuals in need of authentication services. There are many businesses that need consistent notarizations. Did we mention there are over 1.25 billion notarizations performed annually?
It is important to remember that when working as an online notary, you are responsible for adhering to the regulations set forth by the state. This includes making sure documents are properly notarized and witnessed. Always ensure documents contain all of the necessary information. The most successful online notaries spend some time doing their own client acquisition and sales funneling, especially those who are doing it online.
How Much Can You Expect To Make as a Notary in North Dakota?
As you gain more experience and have notarized more documents, you will be able to earn even more by taking on loan signings (where the industry standard is $150 per session) and other creative packages and invoicing clients outside of BlueNotary. You will be able to earn a very decent income – all from the comfort of your home office.
BlueNotary lets you bill your clients at your own rates. This makes your earnings very flexible depending on your ability to build a network.
Why Should You Think about Becoming An Online Notary In North Dakota?
Becoming an Online Notary in North Dakota is a simple way to offer convenient and secure services to clients from wherever you are. Online Notaries offer faster booking and easier document completion turnaround times! Save clients and yourself time by working from home. What are you waiting for?
How do I Start Notarizing Online in North Dakota?
A great place to start is the BlueNotary Free Training Group. There you will find advice from other North Dakota notaries who’ve been through the process and can answer your questions.
Becoming an online notary can be a great way to supplement your income and make a positive impact on the community. As an online notary, you get to decide which platform to use for finding clients.
BlueNotary is the best option for super simple onboarding and for an independent notary looking to grow their own business. We even have training videos and a signing simulator to get you comfortable with the process.
Register and get started here: Sign Up.
