How to Become a Wisconsin Notary

Along with the bond, our notary package also includes a more detailed copy of application instructions that guide you through this process.

1) Meet State of Wisconsin Notary Requirements to be a Notary Public

To become a Notary Public in Wisconsin, you must meet the following requirements:

  • Be a United States citizen or legal permanent resident 18 years old or older
  • Have at least an eighth grade education
  • Obtain a passing score of 90% or higher on the online Notary Public Exam
  • Be able to read and write English
  • Have no felony convictions

2) Purchase a Notary Bond

All Wisconsin notaries are required to have a $500 notary bond. The state does not provide these bonds, but one is included with the notary package available on Notaries.com. Be sure to pick a name for your surety bond that you want to appear on your official seal of office.

After purchase, your notary bond will print along with a page of detailed application instructions.

3) Fill Out the State Application

When you purchase our notary package, we fill out a copy of the state application with the information you provided then email it to you.

You can then print the pre-filled application, print and sign your name on the application and imprint your custom notary stamp that will be arriving from us in 10-12 business days.

4) Take an Oath of Office

Part of the notary application includes an oath of office that you sign in the presence of a Wisconsin notary in good standing.

Before taking the oath of office, you must also present satisfactory evidence of your identity (such as a state-issued photo ID or US passport).

5) Submit Application

Your application must include:

  • A printed and signed application
  • Oath of Office Form
  • Notary Bond Form
  • Certificate from passing the Notary Exam with 90% or better
  • A $20 check made payable to the Wisconsin State Treasurer for the notary filing fee. The fee is only payable by check; we do not collect the state fee from you when you purchase the notary package.
  • Clear impression of your custom notary stamp that should be arriving from us in 10-12 business days

Once ready, mail your completed notary application packet directly to:

Notary Records Section
WI Department of Financial Institutions
P O Box 7847
Madison, WI 53707-7847

6) Complete the Notary Commission Certificate Process

After you've submitted your application to the state, it may take up to two weeks for you to receive your commission notice from the Department of Financial Institutions.

Email us a copy of the Commission to info@notaries.com prior to performing any notarizations.

The state of Wisconsin strongly recommends that all notaries keep a journal of their work. That’s why we include one for you in our complete notary package.