State Requirements
How to Become a Notary in Wisconsin
Wisconsin notary requirements, fees, bond amounts, and step-by-step instructions.
Wisconsin Notary Requirements at a Glance
Exam Required
No
Surety Bond
$500
Commission Term
4 years
Education Required
None
E&O Insurance
Optional (recommended)
Background Check
Not required
Application Fee
$20
Appointing Authority
Secretary of State
Journal Required
No (recommended)
Remote Online Notarization
Authorized
$500 bond — one of the lowest in the country.
Steps to Become a Notary in Wisconsin
Meet Basic Requirements
You must be at least 18 years old and a resident of Wisconsin. You must be a legal U.S. resident with no disqualifying criminal record.
Submit Your Application
Apply through the Secretary of State. The application fee is $20.
Obtain a $500 Surety Bond
Wisconsin requires a $500 surety bond. You can purchase one from a bonding company for approximately $30–$10 for a 4 years term.
Purchase Your Notary Seal & Supplies
Get your official notary seal/stamp, notary journal (if required), and any other supplies needed for your practice.
Take the Oath of Office
Once your commission is approved, take the oath of office as required by Wisconsin law. Your commission will be valid for 4 years.
Wisconsin Notary Fee Schedule
Maximum fees a notary can charge per act in Wisconsin:
| Notarial Act | Max Fee |
|---|---|
| Acknowledgment | $5.00 |
| Jurat (Verification on Oath/Affirmation) | $5.00 |
| Oath / Affirmation | $5.00 |
| Copy Certification | $5.00 |
| Signature Witnessing | $5.00 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to take an exam to become a notary in Wisconsin? +
No, Wisconsin does not require a notary exam. You can apply directly through the Secretary of State.
How much does it cost to become a notary in Wisconsin? +
The application fee is $20. A $500 surety bond costs approximately $30–$10. Add $15–40 for a notary seal. Total startup cost is typically $50–$70.
How long is a notary commission in Wisconsin? +
A notary commission in Wisconsin lasts 4 years. After that, you’ll need to renew by filing a new application and bond (if required).
Can I perform Remote Online Notarization (RON) in Wisconsin? +
Yes, Wisconsin authorizes Remote Online Notarization. You’ll need to register as an electronic notary and use an approved RON platform.
More Notary Tools
Fee Calculator
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Journal Template
Download a free printable notary journal
Income Calculator
See how much signing agents earn
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