Key Takeaways
- Pass the free online exam first (85% required)
- Obtain a $15,000 surety bond for 4 years
- Take the oath of office before another notary
- Complete online application within 90 days of passing
- Pay $30 application fee online
Last updated: January 2026
Nebraska Notary Application Process
Step-by-Step Application Guide
Step 1: Study and Prepare
Before attempting the exam, thoroughly review:
| Resource | Source |
|---|---|
| Nebraska Notary Statutes | Secretary of State website |
| Frequently Asked Questions | Secretary of State website |
| Rules and Regulations | Secretary of State website |
All study materials are FREE on the Nebraska Secretary of State website.
Step 2: Pass the Online Exam
| Detail | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Questions | 20 questions |
| Passing Score | 85% (miss max 3) |
| Attempts | Only 3 allowed |
| Cost | FREE |
| Type | Open-book |
CRITICAL: If you fail all 3 attempts, you are permanently disqualified.
Step 3: Obtain Your Surety Bond
| Bond Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Amount | $15,000 |
| Term | 4 years (matches commission) |
| Source | Nebraska insurance agents or online providers |
| Typical Cost | $30-$50 for 4 years |
Signing the Bond: You must sign the bond twice:
- As the "principal" of the bond
- In front of a notary public when completing the oath of office
Step 4: Take the Oath of Office
The oath of office is printed on your notary bond form. You must:
- Appear before another Nebraska notary public
- Take the oath in their presence
- Have the notary sign as witness
Step 5: Complete Online Application
| Application Detail | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Deadline | 90 days from passing exam |
| Fee | $30 (paid online) |
| Required Documents | Exam certificate, signed bond, oath |
Upload these documents:
- Notary exam passing certificate
- Completed and signed notary bond
- Proof of Nebraska employment (non-residents only)
Step 6: Receive Your Commission
| Commission Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Term | 4 years |
| Effective Date | Date of commission approval |
| Certificate | Issued by Secretary of State |
Timeline Summary
| Event | Deadline |
|---|---|
| Pass exam | Before application |
| Complete application | Within 90 days of passing |
| Commission start | Upon approval |
| Commission expiration | 4 years from start |
Renewal Requirements
| Renewal Detail | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Application Window | 30 days before expiration |
| Final Deadline | 5:00 p.m. on expiration date |
| New Bond | Required ($15,000) |
| Fee | $30 |
| Grace Period | NONE - must reapply from scratch if missed |
On the Exam
- Application must be completed within 90 days of passing
- Surety bond is $15,000 for 4 years
- Application fee is $30 (paid online)
- Commission term is 4 years
- No grace period for renewal - miss it and start over
Test Your Knowledge
How much is the Nebraska notary surety bond?
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Test Your Knowledge
When signing the notary bond, how many times must the applicant sign?
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