How to Become a Notary Public in South Dakota

This guide covers all the requirements, costs, processing times, and eligibility criteria you need to get started.

Steps to Become a Notary in South Dakota

Meet South Dakota Notary Eligibility Requirements
Complete the South Dakota Notary Public Application
Obtain a $5,000 Surety Bond
Submit the Application and Fee to the Secretary of State
Receive Your Notary Commission Certificate
Purchase a Notary Seal or Stamp
Keep a Notary Journal (Recommended)

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Become a Notary public today!

About the South Dakota Notary Process

A South Dakota notary commission is valid for six years. Notaries must renew their commission before it expires to continue performing notarial acts.

Cost to Become a Notary in South Dakota

The total cost to become a Notary Public in South Dakota varies based on required and optional supplies. Below is a cost breakdown:

Item	Cost	Details
Application Fee	$30	Paid when submitting the notary application.
Surety Bond	$50 - $100	Required $5,000 bond for South Dakota notaries.
Notary Seal or Stamp	$20 - $50	Required for performing notarizations in South Dakota.
Notary Journal	$15 - $30	Optional but recommended for maintaining records.
Notary Public Course	$25	Optional training course covering South Dakota notary laws.
Total Cost	$140 - $235	Varies depending on supplies and training.

South Dakota Notary Commission Processing Time

The South Dakota Secretary of State typically processes notary applications within 7 to 14 business days after submission.

South Dakota Notary Requirements

To qualify as a Notary Public in South Dakota, applicants must:

Be at least 18 years old
Be a U.S. citizen or legal resident
Be a resident of South Dakota
Have no felony convictions unless civil rights have been restored

Who Is Ineligible to Become a Notary in South Dakota?

Individuals who do not meet residency requirements or have felony convictions without restored civil rights are ineligible.

Notary Training Requirements

Q: Is training required in South Dakota?
A: No, South Dakota does not require training, but an optional Notary Public Course is recommended to understand state laws and best practices.

Q: Is an exam required to become a Notary in South Dakota?
A: No, South Dakota does not require a notary exam.

South Dakota Notary Supplies

To perform notarizations in South Dakota, Notaries need:

Notary Seal or Stamp – South Dakota notaries must use a seal or stamp that includes their name, “Notary Public,” “State of South Dakota,” and commission expiration date.
Notary Journal – A notary journal is not required but is strongly recommended for tracking notarizations and protecting against legal issues.

Renewing a South Dakota Notary Commission

South Dakota Notary commissions last six years. To renew:

Submit a renewal application before your commission expires.
Obtain a new $5,000 surety bond for the next six-year term.
Pay the renewal fee to the Secretary of State.

Remote Online Notarization (RON) in South Dakota

Q: Does South Dakota allow Remote Online Notarization (RON)?
A: No, South Dakota does not currently allow remote online notarization (RON). All notarizations must be performed in person

Conclusion

Becoming a Notary Public in South Dakota is a great way to expand your professional services and assist with legal, financial, and business documents. By following the step-by-step application process, securing the necessary supplies, and understanding state regulations, you can confidently begin your notarial career.