How to Become a Notary in Wisconsin

How to Become a Notary in Wisconsin

Thinking about becoming a Notary Public in Wisconsin? Whether you’re adding a side hustle or expanding your professional skills, this all-in-one guide will walk you through the process—from application to commission! 📄🖊️

✅ Wisconsin Notary Application Process

To become a commissioned Notary in WI, follow these steps

✔️ Meet all eligibility requirements

📘 Pass the Notary Tutorial Exam

🔐 Purchase a $500 surety bond and your official Notary seal

📝 Complete the Four-Year Notary Application

📤 Submit the application, bond form, exam certificate, oath of office, and $20 fee

📆 Your Notary commission is valid for 4 years. If you’re an attorney licensed in Wisconsin, you may qualify for a lifetime commission.

💰 Cost to Become a WI Notary
Item Estimated Cost
Application fee $20
$500 surety bond $20
Notarization fee $5
Notary stamp $30
Total $75
⏱️ Commission Processing Time

🕒 It typically takes up to 2 weeks for your application to be approved after submission. Online applications are often processed faster.

📋 Wisconsin Notary Eligibility

To qualify for a Notary Public commission in the Badger State, you must:

✅ Be at least 18 years old
✅ Be a U.S. resident
✅ Have at least an eighth-grade education
✅ Be familiar with Notary laws and responsibilities
🚫 Not have any felony or misdemeanor convictions related to public trust (unless expunged or pardoned)

🧠 Notary Training & Exam

All WI Notary applicants must complete a mandatory online tutorial and pass a 30-question exam with a score of 90% or higher.

✔️ You may retake the exam unlimited times
📥 Print your certificate of completion — it must be submitted with your application

📍 Take the Tutorial + Exam on the WI DFI Website

📦 Application Submission

After completing your training and purchasing your bond and seal:

📄 Complete the Four-Year Notary Application

📎 Include:

Exam certificate

$500 bond form

Oath of office (notarized)

$20 commission fee

✉️ Submit by email or mail to the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions

🔏 Notary Seal Requirements

Wisconsin Notaries are required to use an engraved official seal or a rubber stamp. The seal must include:

Your name as it appears on your commission

The words “Notary Public”

The words “State of Wisconsin”

Optional: Your commission expiration date

🖋️ The seal must be copyable on all documents. Embossers are allowed in addition to (not instead of) the official seal.

📓 Notary Journal (Optional)

Although not required in Wisconsin, keeping a Notary journal is strongly recommended for:

✔️ Legal protection
✔️ Accurate record-keeping
✔️ Proof of notarization if ever challenged

Choose a bound, tamper-proof journal with numbered pages and keep it secure during and after your commission.

🛡️ Surety Bond & E&O Insurance

📌 A $500 surety bond is required by the state to protect the public.

🤝 Consider adding Errors & Omissions (E&O) Insurance for yourself—it covers your legal defense if you’re sued for an unintentional mistake.

📝 Take your official oath of office in front of a current Wisconsin Notary and include the completed bond form with your application.

🚀 Ready to Start Your Notary Career?