Beginning July 1, 2025, South Dakota notaries public will no longer be required to post a surety bond as part of their application process, following the passage of House Bill 1133 during the 2025 Legislative Session.
HB 1133, signed into law earlier this year, eliminates the statutory requirement for a $5,000 notary bond. This change applies to all new and renewing notaries on or after July 1, 2025.
“This legislation streamlines the notary process and removes a barrier that often caused confusion or delay,” said Secretary of State Monae L. Johnson. “We are committed to making public services as accessible and efficient as possible.”
The updated requirements are outlined on the Secretary of State’s Notary Public webpage: How to Become a Notary
All other steps to become a notary, such as submitting an application, taking the oath of office, and paying the $30 application fee, remain unchanged. Notaries who were commissioned before July 1, 2025, are not affected until their next renewal.
For questions or assistance, contact the Secretary of State’s Office at (605) 773-3537 or email notary@state.sd.us.
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