How to become a notary in Illinois
Notaries in Illinois are commissioned by the Illinois Secretary of State, Index Department (Notary Public Division). Here is who can apply, what it takes and what it costs, from the state's own rules, checked November 4, 2026.
The state's website could not be fully reached when we checked, so some details come from Illinois law and official forms. Confirm them on the official page before you apply.
Who can become a notary in Illinois?
- Resident of Illinois for 30 days before applying, or resident of a bordering state who has worked or kept a business in Illinois for 30 days (one-year term)
- U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident
- Proficient in English
- No prior commission revoked by the Secretary of State
- No felony conviction (from Jan. 1, 2027: allowed if all sentences were completed 10+ years ago)
- Completed the required course and exam
What are the Illinois notary requirements?
| Commissioned by | Illinois Secretary of State, Index Department (Notary Public Division) |
|---|---|
| Training required | Yes. Since January 1, 2024, new and renewing applicants must complete a Secretary of State-approved course of study (5 ILCS 312/2-101.5; 14 Ill. Adm. Code 176.205). Renewing attorneys, judges and their employees may file a signed statement instead. |
| Exam required | Yes. An exam is taken at the end of the course; you have two years from the exam date to apply. |
| Surety bond | $5,000 |
| Application fee | $15 |
| Commission term | 4 years |
| Remote online notarization | Any Illinois notary may perform remote notarizations; electronic notarization by audio-video requires a separate electronic notary commission, course and exam, and a $25,000 bond (5 ILCS 312/2-102, 2-105). |
Steps to become a notary in Illinois
- Complete a Secretary of State-approved notary course and pass the exam
- Get a 4-year, $5,000 surety bond (the bonding company submits bond verification to the Secretary of State)
- Apply to the Secretary of State and affirm the oath (electronically if applying online)
- Pay the $15 fee
- Receive your commission, then get an official rubber stamp seal
How do you find a notary in Illinois?
- Banks, credit unions, shipping stores and law offices often have a notary on staff. Call ahead, because not every branch does.
- A mobile notary travels to you for a travel fee on top of the state's notarization fee.
- Bring a current government photo ID and the unsigned document. Don't sign it until the notary watches you.
- A notary checks your identity and witnesses your signature. They can't give legal advice or tell you what a document means unless they are also a lawyer.