Notary Public Bond in Louisiana

What this bond requires in Louisiana

Louisiana is a civil-law jurisdiction and its notaries function as quasi-judicial officers commissioned for a specific parish, not a fixed term. Effective February 1, 2026, HB 259 raised the required surety bond (or personal surety) from $10,000 to $50,000 and eliminated the option to file an errors and omissions policy in lieu of a bond. A $20 filing fee is required at the Secretary of State, and bonds/riders must be renewed every five years.

Who requires it

The notary public bond is required by the Louisiana Secretary of State, Notary and Certifications Division under La. R.S. 35:71; HB 259 (2024).

How to file in Louisiana

Apply through the Louisiana Secretary of State Notary and Certifications Division after passing the state notary exam and being commissioned for a specific parish. Obtain a $50,000 surety bond (or qualifying personal surety) executed in favor of the Governor, complete the Transmittal of Notary Bond form, and file the original bond along with the $20 filing fee with the Secretary of State. Bonds must be renewed every five years to keep the commission active.

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FAQ

Common questions

Is a notary public bond required in Louisiana?

Yes. Louisiana requires notary public bonds issued by an admitted surety. The required amount is $50,000.

How much is the bond in Louisiana?

The bond amount is $50,000. Your annual premium is a small percentage of that, based on credit and experience.

Who requires the bond?

The bond is required by the Louisiana Secretary of State, Notary and Certifications Division.

How is the bond filed?

Apply through the Louisiana Secretary of State Notary and Certifications Division after passing the state notary exam and being commissioned for a specific parish. Obtain a $50,000 surety bond (or qualifying personal surety) executed in favor of the Governor, complete the Transmittal of Notary Bond form, and file the original bond along with the $20 filing fee with the Secretary of State. Bonds must be renewed every five years to keep the commission active.

What does the bond cover?

Surety bonds protect the obligee, not the principal. If you fail to meet the obligation the bond guarantees, the surety pays the claim and recovers from you.

Is a surety bond the same as insurance?

No. Insurance protects you. A surety bond protects whoever required the bond. You repay the surety for any claim they pay.