Apostilles and Authentications

Looking for your Idaho birth certificate or similar document? The Bureau of Vital Records and Health Statistics can help you.

If you need your documents quickly, the Bureau of Vital Statistics offers expedited service. Scroll down on their web page to see options. If you are in an emergency situation, you can appear IN PERSON in the Governor's office to have your request hand walked through the process. Extra fees apply for these expedited services. Call the Bureau of Vital Statistics at (208) 334-5988 for more information.

Links to apostille and authentication information in all states.

Notary Public Handbook and Application Form
The Notary Public application is the last page of the Notary Handbook and is a fillable form if you have Acrobat Reader version 4.0 or higher.

Need to renew your notary commission?
[We do not send renewal reminders.]
Technically, commissions are not renewed. You simply re-apply for another 6 year commission by filling out the application form and getting a new bond. You do not need to obtain a new rubber stamp seal if you already have one. You can apply for a new commission up to 90 days prior to your current commission lapsing.

Notary Public Change of Name and/or Residence Address

Notary Public Frequently Asked Questions

Notary Public Fee Schedule & Payment Options

Notary Public Resources

Notary Public Links - Other States

Questions?

Contact Debbie Farnsworth by phone (208) 332-2810, fax (208) 334-2282 or email questions to dfarnsworth@sos.idaho.gov

You can also request the handbook and application form be mailed to you - be sure to include your name and complete mailing address.

NOTARY APPOINTMENT PROCESS

Notaries are appointed by the Secretary of State for terms of six years. Each applicant for appointment must: (1) be at least 18 years old, (2) be a resident of or employed in the state of Idaho, (3) be able to read and write the English language, and (4) not have been removed from office for misconduct nor convicted of a serious crime within the last ten years. United States citizens and lawful resident aliens may be appointed as notaries.

If you are employed by a State of Idaho agency, and the commission is required in the scope of your employment, you will obtain both your application and your bond from the Bureau of Risk Management. Contact 332-1824 or 1-800-531-0597.

1) Complete the application form enclosed in the Notary Public Handbook. The applicant's signature must be notarized on the application.

2) Obtain a rubber stamp seal prior to submitting the application and bond with the Secretary of State's office. The seal may contain ONLY the words "Notary Public", "State of Idaho" and the notary public's name and NOTHING MORE (sample seals are shown on page 29 of the Notary Handbook). Notary stamp seals can be purchased at office supply stores, stationary stores and rubber stamp companies. Effective July 1, 1998 all new and renewing commissions shall obtain a rubber stamp seal. Stamp a sample of your seal where indicated on the application.

3) Obtain from a bonding or surety company (Insurance Agency) a $10,000 notary bond.

4) Enclose the $30.00 filing fee with your application. If you are an officer or employee of a state, county, city or district, and the commission is used in the scope of your employment, you are exempt from the $30.00 filing fee.

5) Submit the completed application, signed bond and $30.00 filing fee to the address listed below.

Submit all filings and fees to:
Secretary of State
PO Box 83720
450 N 4th Street
Boise ID 83720-0080