Alaska Notary Frequently Asked Questions
Are you a new notary public? This is a list of our most frequently asked questions about becoming a notary and what supplies you will need in the state of Alaska.
Alaska Notary Public: a person authorized to perform certain legal formalities, especially to draw up or certify contracts, deeds and other documents for use in other jurisdictions. A notary can also be referred to as a signing agent.
See our How to Become a Notary Infographic for an easy breakdown of the steps you will need to take.
Complete the application form from the Office of the Lieutenant Governor or apply online through Alaska Notary Commissions. A notarized signature on the oath of office is required with all applications in addition to proof of your $1,000 surety bond. All of this must be submitted to the Lieutenant Governor's office with the $40 application fee. Applicants with an active myAlaska account are able to scan documents and pay the fee with a credit card online. If you are a state employee that is applying for a limited governmental notary commission, a bond is not required.
Anyone who is at least 18 years old
Must be legally residing in the United States
Must be a resident of Alaska
Must not have been convict of a felony or incarcerated for a felony within ten years prior to commission
Must not have had a commission revoked within ten years before the commission
Must have no prior notarial misconduct
Anywhere in the state of Alaska.
You can notarize for any member of the public who makes a sensible request and meets all the requirements for notarization. For Example: Must have proof of identity and be physically present.
No training or exam is required in the state of Alaska, but you are urged to obtain notary training to better understand the laws and your duties as a notary.
An Alaska surety bond is mandatory in the amount of $1,000. This bond is NOT required for state employees who are applying for a limited governmental notary commission. Errors and Omissions & insurance (E&O) is NOT required, but it is recommended.
A surety bond is a promise to pay anyone harmed if you fail to honestly, diligently and faithfully discharge your responsibilities as a Notary. Any damages paid from the bond go to cover a signer’s losses and you must pay back the surety company. The surety company may also require you to repay any costs the company incurs in defending the bond. A surety bond does NOT provide insurance coverage for you.
Alaska does require a surety bond to protect the public from any notary misconduct.
Application filing fee is $40
Prices of a surety bond will vary depending on vendor
Prices on Notary Supplies may vary (Notary seal stamps and embossers)
Rubber Notary Stamp - Stamp must have ink that does not bleed during or after use because documents can be rejected due to smudging. Your stamp must contain the following information: Notary Public, State of Alaska and the Name of the Signing Agent. It is optional to include the expiration date on your seal, but it is required to be featured on all notarial acts performed. If circular, must be not more than 2" in diameter. If it is rectangular, it must not be larger than 1" x 2 1/2";
Notary Records Journal -It is not mandatory, but the state does recommend a bound journal for your own protection because it keeps your notarization organized and makes it harder for pages to be misplaced or removed.
ID Guide - Suggested for mobile notaries in order to be able to determine if the form of identification, that has been presented, is an acceptable ID for notarization.
Although not a requirement, if you believe it is helpful for your business to have these, then it is a good idea. If you work for a company as a notary singing agent, then discuss with them if this would be necessary.
Yes, being a notary grants you certain permissions and responsibilities and there is the need for insurance which was noted earlier.
Risk should be assessed on a case by case basis, but being a notary signing agent comes with the responsibility of fully understanding the risks involved. Having E&O Insurance can potentially reduce your exposure to risk.
The Alaska Notary commission is valid for four years. You will need to re-apply when your term ends. Terms are revoked in instances of the notary public no longer residing in Alaska, resignation death or revocation.