How to Get a Public Notary License in Indiana

In Indiana, you must complete the licensing process before becoming a commissioned notary public according to Indiana Code 33-42. Notary publics serve as an impartial witness in the signing of legal documents such as wills, property deeds, marriage licenses and adoption papers. 

Indiana notaries are law-abiding, bonded, impartial public officials appointed by the Governor and commissioned by the Secretary of State. Read on to learn how to get your Indiana notary license with this step-by-step guide.

How Do I Become a Notary Public in Indiana?

To become a notary public in Indiana, follow these eight steps. 

Step 1: Verify you meet basic eligibility requirements

You must meet the following requirements set in place by the Secretary of State to be eligible for a notary public license in Indiana: 

• Be at least 18 years old
• Be a citizen or legal resident of the United States
• Be a full-time, permanent resident of Indiana or primarily employed in Indiana
• Have an Indiana driver's license
• Have a clear criminal history

Step 2: File a $25,000 notary bond

The Indiana Secretary of State requires all notary public licensees to purchase a $25,000 surety bond to ensure ethical notary business practice according to Indiana Code. 

Buy your Indiana notary bond instantly online for just $50. For an additional premium, you can purchase supplemental errors and omissions insurance coverage. Be sure to file your notary bond with the Secretary of State Notary Division. 

Step 3: Obtain a criminal history record

Next, you’ll need to get an Indiana State Police Limited Criminal history record. To do so, visit IN.gov and complete the following steps:

• Log in or create a new account
• Begin your search
• Follow the prompts to complete your request (be sure to select “option 4” as your Reason for Request) 
• Print or save your instant results 
• Attach the criminal history record to your license application

Step 4: Pay the application fee

Prior to applying for your Indiana public notary license, you must submit a $75 application fee through INBiz. INBiz is an online government portal where you’ll submit all application materials, payments and documents. 

Step 5: Pass the notary education course and exam

The initial Illinois public notary education course and examination will be available once you pay the application fee. You can find the course on your INBiz dashboard. 

Once you pass the exam, your application will be sent to the Secretary of State for final review. You can expect a response in 5-10 business days. 

Step 6: Purchase your errors and omissions insurance

In addition to a surety bond, you may wish to purchase an errors and omission (E&O) policy to protect yourself financially. This is optional, but recommended, to protect yourself from legal damages due to common notarization errors such as missing seals, dates or signatures. 

We offer E&O insurance options bundled with the notary bond. Get your $25,000 surety bond plus $15,000 E&O coverage for just $145 today. 

Step 7: Purchase supplies

The Secretary of State does not provide notary seals or stamps, but you can purchase these supplies through retailers or notary supply vendors. Your seal must include the following:

• The words “notary public” and “State of Indiana”
• Your name exactly as it appears on your commission certificate
• You commission number worded “commission number [your commission number]” 
• The expiration date of your commission worded “My commission expires [expiration date]”

For an example of an acceptable notary seal and signature, refer to the Indiana Secretary of State Notary Seal Requirements.

Step 8: Participate in continuing education

To maintain your license, Indiana Code requires you to complete three continuing education courses throughout your eight year term. Each continuing education (CE) course is $50 and can be found in your INBiz dashboard every two years.

You can begin a CE course within 90 days of its due date. Failure to complete your CE on time will result in automatic expiration of your commission. If you’re not sure when yours is due, use the IN.gov license search tool. 

How Much Does It Cost to Get a Notary License in Indiana? 

The cost of a notary commission in Indiana varies depending on the surety bond and insurance premium you purchase. Consistent required fees are:

• License application fee: $75
• Limited criminal history record check: $16.32
• Continuing education over eight years: $150

Refer to the table below for other varying costs that contribute to your full investment. 

You can pay fees using a Mastercard or Visa card. Be aware that credit cards have an additional convenience fee. All fees are non-refundable. 

How to Renew Your Notary Public License

Notary publics hold their position for eight-year terms. When your term is over, you can reapply directly through INBiz. Once approved, your commission will automatically extend for another eight years. 

How to Become a Remote Notary Public in Indiana

Once you are licensed, you have the option to become a remote notary public. Indiana remote notary publics use an approved remote technology vendor platform to compete their services. An up-to-date list of acceptable vendors can be found in the INBiz remote notary guide. 

There are additional requirements for this application. You must complete the following steps: 

• Hold a current Indiana notary public commission with at least 90 days remaining in your current term
• Meet continuing education requirements 
• Submit a remote notary application through INBiz
• Complete the remote notarization course
• Pass the remote notary exam
• Be able to operate the software provided by your remote technology vendor 
• Pay a $100 application fee

Your remote notary public license will expire at the end of your current commission term. Before renewing your remote notary public license, you must renew your regular commission. 

How Do I Change Information on My Notary Public License

If you need to make any changes to your personal information such as name, address, email address or employer information, you must contact the Secretary of State’s office within 30 days of applying. 

You’ll need to login to your INBiz account, add your commission, and select “Edit License” from the dashboard. If you change your name, you must file a bond rider and submit a new signature sample to the Secretary of State’s office. 

More Resources

• Indiana Notary Guide PDF
• Indiana Secretary of State: Notaries Public Information