Michigan Notary FAQs

How long is a Michigan Notary Commission good for?

Your Michigan Notary Commission is valid for six years. If you wish to continue as a notary afterward, you must renew your commission.

How do I renew my Michigan Notary certificate?

To renew your notary commission, you must reapply and follow the same steps you took to becoming a Michigan Notary. Since receiving a certificate can take 3-4 weeks, it is recommended you start the renewal process 60 days before your current certificate expires.

Do I need the $10,000 surety bond?

Yes, the State of Michigan requires you to purchase a $10,000 surety bond in order to become a Michigan Notary.

Do I need Errors & Omissions Insurance?

No, as a Michigan Notary you are not required to purchase Errors & Omissions (E&O) insurance. However, it is highly recommended as it can cover your legal fees if a lawsuit is ever filed against you.

Do I need a notary stamp?

No, Michigan does not require you to purchase a stamp. It is highly recommended, however, and most Michigan Notary stamp the documents they notarized in order to offer them legal protection. The stamp must have your name, as it appears on your certificate, and the statements "Notary Public, State of Michigan, County of __?" and "My Commission Expires __". The stamp must stamp clear, legible, and reproducible seals. Additionally, if you're notarizing a document outside of your county, the phrase "Acting in the County of __" must appear on the document.

How long do I need to wait for the stamp I ordered?

After we receive a copy or fax of your commission card, we will send you your stamp within 10 business days.

How long will it take to process my application?

The Office of the Great Seal will usually process an application within 3-4 weeks.

Do I need to take a class to become a Michigan Notary?

No, no education is required, though it is recommended, to become a Michigan Notary.

Do I qualify to become a Michigan Notary?

If you meet the following condition, you are qualified to be a Michigan Notary:

  • You are over 18-years old
  • You are a resident of Michigan or maintain a business in Michigan
  • You are a U.S. Citizen or have proof of legal residence
  • You are a resident of the county you're applying to, or your business is located in the county your applying to
  • You can read and write English
  • You have not been convicted of a felony in the past 10 years
  • You are not currently severing time in any state, county, or federal correctional facility
  • Within the past five years, you have not been involved in three or more violations of the Michigan Notary Public Act
  • Within the past 12-months while commissioned, you have not been convicted of two or more misdemeanor offences of the Michigan Notary Public Act

Do I have to complete the application on notaries.com's website?

No, if you prefer, notaries.com will email you the application, which you can print and complete.

Do I need to send my application to notaries.com?

You must send a completed and signed copy or your application, either through fax or email. After which, notaries.com will proofread your application, and mail your Notary Bond and Power of Attorney form to you.

Do I need to send my application to the state?

Yes, once you've taken the Oath of Office, you must send your signed and completed application, your Notary Bond, and your Power of Attorney form to the Office of the Great Seal.

How long will it take to receive my commission?

It usually takes the Office of the Great Seal 3-4 weeks to send notary applicants a blue wallet card.

Once I receive my blue wallet card, can I start notarizing documents?

Technically, yes. The State of Michigan does not require notaries to use a stamp. However, it is highly recommended to wait to notarize any documents until you have received your stamp from notaries.com.

Do I have to fax my Notary Commission Certificate to notaries.com?

Yes. Notaries.com cannot make your stamp until we received a copy of your blue wallet card through fax or email.