Question 1

Does Wyoming require a notary bond?

Accepted Answer

No. Wyoming eliminated the mandatory notary bond requirement effective July 1, 2021, when the state adopted the Wyoming Revised Uniform Law on Notarial Acts. While Wyoming previously required a bond, it is no longer mandatory or filed with the Secretary of State. Notaries may still voluntarily purchase bonds or errors and omissions (E&O) insurance for personal protection, but the state does not require it.

Question 2

When did Wyoming eliminate the notary bond requirement?

Accepted Answer

Wyoming eliminated the notary bond requirement on July 1, 2021, as part of comprehensive notary law reforms under the Wyoming Revised Uniform Law on Notarial Acts (Title 32, Chapter 3). The old notary statutes in Title 32, Chapter 1 (including W.S. 32-1-104 and W.S. 32-1-106) were repealed and replaced with modern requirements that do not include a bond mandate.

Question 3

How long is a Wyoming notary commission valid?

Accepted Answer

Wyoming notary commissions are valid for 6 years, which is longer than most states (many have 4-year terms). The extended term was implemented as part of the 2021 law changes. You must renew your commission before expiration by submitting a new application, fee, and meeting all current requirements.

Question 4

What does it cost to become a Wyoming notary?

Accepted Answer

The Wyoming notary application fee is $60 (non-refundable), payable by check or money order to "Wyoming Secretary of State." Additional costs include: notary seal/stamp ($20-50), notary journal ($10-30), and optional education course ($30-60) if you choose not to take the state exam. Total estimated cost: $90-140 for the full 6-year term.

Question 5

Is an exam required for Wyoming notaries?

Accepted Answer

Wyoming offers two options: (1) Complete a 20-question true/false exam on the state application form (70% required to pass = 14 correct answers), OR (2) Take an approved vendor education course and submit the completion certificate, which allows you to skip the exam. The exam is optional if you take an approved course.

Question 6

What education is required for Wyoming notaries?

Accepted Answer

Wyoming does not mandate formal education but requires applicants to review the Wyoming Notary Education Presentation provided by the Secretary of State, OR complete an approved vendor course. Completing an approved course allows you to skip the 20-question exam on the application. Education is recommended but not strictly required if you pass the exam.

Question 7

Does Wyoming require a notary journal?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Since July 1, 2021, Wyoming law requires all notaries to maintain a journal of notarial acts. The journal may be a physical bound book or a secure electronic record system. You must record every notarization, including date, time, type of act, document type, signer identification, and signature. This is a mandatory requirement under W.S. 32-3-115.

Question 8

What type of notary seal is required in Wyoming?

Accepted Answer

Wyoming requires a rectangular notary seal (stamp) measuring approximately 1 inch wide by 2.5 inches long. The seal must include your name, "Notary Public," "State of Wyoming," and commission expiration date. The seal must be affixed in blue or black ink to each notarized document. This is mandatory—you cannot perform notarial acts without a proper seal.

Question 9

Can non-residents become Wyoming notaries?

Accepted Answer

Yes, under specific conditions. Wyoming allows non-residents who: (1) have a place of employment or practice in Wyoming, OR (2) are the spouse or legal dependent of U.S. military personnel on active duty in Wyoming. You must meet all other standard requirements including age, language, and background checks.

Question 10

Should I still purchase E&O insurance as a Wyoming notary?

Accepted Answer

Yes, errors and omissions (E&O) insurance is strongly recommended even though Wyoming does not require a bond. E&O insurance protects you personally from financial losses due to notarial errors or omissions. Policies typically cost $50-100 annually for $50,000-100,000 in coverage and provide peace of mind when handling important documents.

Question 11

Can Wyoming notaries perform remote online notarizations (RON)?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Wyoming authorizes remote online notarization under the Uniform Real Property Electronic Recording Act (URPERA) and the Wyoming Revised Uniform Law on Notarial Acts. You must use an approved RON technology platform that provides secure audio-visual communication, identity verification, and tamper-evident electronic records. Additional registration may be required.

Question 12

How do I apply for a Wyoming notary commission?

Accepted Answer

To apply: (1) Review Wyoming notary education materials or take an approved course, (2) Complete the notary application form, (3) Complete the 20-question exam on the form OR submit course completion certificate, (4) Have your application notarized by a current notary, (5) Submit application with $60 fee (check/money order) to Wyoming Secretary of State, (6) Wait 2-4 weeks for processing and background check, (7) Receive commission certificate, (8) Purchase seal and journal before performing notarizations.

Wyoming Notary BondNOT Required Since 2021

Wyoming Revised Uniform Law on Notarial Acts

Eliminated Requirements

New Requirements