How to become a notary in Michigan
Notaries in Michigan are commissioned by the Michigan Department of State, Office of the Great Seal (with the county clerk). Here is who can apply, what it takes and what it costs, from the state's own rules, checked November 4, 2026.
Who can become a notary in Michigan?
- At least 18 years old
- Michigan resident, or keep a place of business in Michigan
- U.S. citizen or proof of legal presence
- Live in (or have a principal place of business in) the county of appointment
- Read and write English
- No felony convictions in the past 10 years
- Not currently imprisoned
What are the Michigan notary requirements?
| Commissioned by | Michigan Department of State, Office of the Great Seal (with the county clerk) |
|---|---|
| Training required | No. No training is required; applicants declare they have read the Michigan Notary Public Act. Term varies: 6 to 7 years, ending on the notary's birthday. |
| Exam required | No. No exam is required. |
| Surety bond | $10,000 |
| Application fee | $10 nonrefundable state processing fee; plus a $10 county clerk filing fee (Wayne County may be more) |
| Commission term | See the official page |
| Remote online notarization | Yes: the Department of State says Michigan participates in electronic and remote notarizations, with published standards and platform approval requirements. |
Steps to become a notary in Michigan
- Complete the Notary Application online (Online Services) or on paper
- Buy a $10,000 surety bond from an insurance agency or bonding company (attorneys in good standing are exempt)
- Take the application and bond to your county clerk in person, pay the county filing fee and take the oath
- Upload the completed application online and pay the $10 state fee, or mail it to the Office of the Great Seal
- Receive your commission (online often same day; mail up to 6 weeks)
Apply on the official Michigan site
How do you find a notary in Michigan?
- 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.
- Check that a notary is commissioned on the official Michigan notary lookup.