Notary Public Bond in Ohio

What this bond requires in Ohio

Ohio is one of the states that does not require a surety bond for notaries public. The Notary Public Modernization Act (effective September 20, 2019) overhauled ORC Chapter 147 by centralizing applications with the Secretary of State, adding background checks, education, and testing, and authorizing online notarizations under ORC 147.60-147.66, but did not introduce a bond requirement. Applicants must instead complete a criminal records check, an approved education course, and an exam (ORC 147.01); online notaries must complete additional approved coursework and exam and apply under ORC 147.63. Notary commissions are issued for 5-year terms (ORC 147.03).

Who requires it

The notary public bond is required by the Ohio Secretary of State under Ohio Revised Code Chapter 147 (notably ORC 147.01 appointment/qualifications; ORC 147.03 term; ORC 147.63 online notary application) - no bond provision.

How to file in Ohio

Applicants apply directly to the Ohio Secretary of State through the online Notary Application portal at notary.ohiosos.gov. The applicant must (1) obtain an Ohio criminal records check from an approved vendor, (2) complete an approved 3-hour notary education course and pass the state-approved test, and (3) submit the online application with required fees. There is no surety bond to file. Online notaries must additionally complete approved online-notary instruction and exam and submit a separate application under ORC 147.63.

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FAQ

Common questions

Is a notary public bond required in Ohio?

Ohio does not require a surety bond for notaries public. Ohio Revised Code Chapter 147, as amended by the Notary Public Modernization Act effective September 20, 2019, contains no bond requirement.

How much is the bond in Ohio?

Ohio does not publish a single flat amount. See the state-specific notes for how it is determined.

Who requires the bond?

The bond is required by the Ohio Secretary of State.

How is the bond filed?

Applicants apply directly to the Ohio Secretary of State through the online Notary Application portal at notary.ohiosos.gov. The applicant must (1) obtain an Ohio criminal records check from an approved vendor, (2) complete an approved 3-hour notary education course and pass the state-approved test, and (3) submit the online application with required fees. There is no surety bond to file. Online notaries must additionally complete approved online-notary instruction and exam and submit a separate application under ORC 147.63.

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.