South Dakota states that a commission for notary public is valid for a term of six years. The handbook and FAQ materials also describe the standard application steps and qualifications.
South Dakota's current how-to page states that, effective July 1, 2025, the surety bond or personal surety form is no longer required to apply and become a South Dakota notary public. Earlier materials reflected the prior $5,000 bond rule.
The South Dakota handbook now includes dedicated sections for remote and online notarizations. Use those pages directly before describing or performing a South Dakota remote-notary workflow.
South Dakota says the law no longer requires a register, but the state also explains that keeping a journal and securing the seal or stamp remains advantageous for the notary.
South Dakota items confirmed from official sources
- Commission term confirmed: six years.
- Effective July 1, 2025, South Dakota no longer requires a surety bond to apply.
- Earlier South Dakota materials reflected a $5,000 six-year bond requirement.
- South Dakota's handbook includes remote and online notarization guidance.
- South Dakota no longer legally requires a journal, but the state recommends keeping one.
- Applicants are handled through the South Dakota Secretary of State.
This page is informational only and is not legal advice. Confirm current South Dakota requirements before applying, buying tools, or performing notarial acts. Reviewed March 14, 2026.