How to Get a Michigan Notary Public Commission 

In Michigan, you must complete the licensing process before becoming a notary public according to state law. Notary publics are appointed by the Michigan Department of State and act as impartial witnesses to attest authenticity in the signing of legal documents.

Learn how to get your Michigan notary license with this complete guide. 

How Do I Become a Notary Public in Michigan?

To become a notary public in Michigan, follow these seven steps. 

Step 1: Verify your eligibility

You must meet the following requirements set in place by the Department of State (DOS) to be eligible for a notary public license in Michigan:

• Be at least 18 years old
• Be a resident or maintain a business in Michigan
• Be a U.S. citizen or have proof of legal presence
• Be a resident of the county you are applying in
• Be proficient in English 
• Have no criminal record

Step 2: Complete the application

To apply for a Michigan notary license, complete one of the following applications:

• Online: Complete the application through the DOS e-Services
• Mail-in: Fill out the notary application form with your name exactly as it will appear on your notarization documents.

Step 3: Purchase your $10,000 surety bond

The Michigan DOS requires all notary public licensees to purchase a $10,000 surety bond to ensure ethical notary business practices. Buy your Michigan notary bond instantly online for just $30. 

For an additional premium, you can bundle errors and omission (E&O) insurance. This is optional, but recommended, to protect yourself from legal damages due to common notarization errors such as missing seals, dates or signatures. 

Step 4: Visit the county clerk’s office

Next, take your $10,000 surety bond and a $10 filing fee to your local county clerk's office. The clerk will verify you have completed all the requirements to become a notary public in Michigan and issue your oath of office. 

Step 5: Submit your application

Once your bond is filed, submit your application in one of two ways: 

• Online: Upload your application and pay the $10 processing fee with your debit or credit card through the MiLogin page. 
• Mail-in: Forward your application and the $10 processing fee to the Department of State. Make your check or money order payable to the “State of Michigan” at the following address:

Michigan Department of State 

Office of the Great Seal

7064 Crowner Drive

Lansing, MI 48918

Step 6: Receive your commission certificate

Once your application is approved, you will receive your notary commission certificate in the mail. 

How to Renew Your Michigan Notary Public License

You must apply for a new commission no more than 60 days before your current one expires. To renew your Michigan notary license, follow the same process:

• Complete the application 
• Purchase a $10,000 surety bond
• File your bond and filing fee with the county clerk
• Take your oath of office at the county clerk’s office
• Submit your application and processing fee to the DOS
• Receive your brand new commission certificate

Notary terms last six to seven years ending on your birthday. 

How Long Does it Take to Get a Michigan Notary License?

The Michigan Department of State recommends completing the application online as they take priority over mail-in applications. It can take up to two weeks to process an online notary application and four to six weeks to process a mail-in application. 

How Much Does It Cost to Get a Notary Public License?

The cost of becoming a Michigan notary public is typically around $50–$100 in total. You can expect the following expenses:

• Application fee: $10
• Surety bond: $30–$55*
• Filing fee: $10

*This range reflects SuretyBonds.com notary bond rates plus E&O coverage options. 

How to Become an e-Notary or Remote Notary in Michigan

Once you are licensed, you have the option to become an e-notary and remote notary public. Complete the following steps to receive electronic abilities:

1.  Purchase an electronic notarization system from the approved vendors list
2. Complete the Electronic and Remote Notary Request for Change form
3. Provide the DOS with documentation that you signed up with your vendor 

Once the DOS approves and adds your vendor to your profile, you can perform notarial acts electronically and remotely. For more information, refer to the e-Notary and Remote Notary Guide. 

Do I Need to Purchase Any Supplies as a Notary Public in Michigan?

Michigan notary publics are not required to purchase an embosser stamp or seal like in other states. You may choose to buy a stamp for documents intended for use outside of Michigan. Just be sure to include the following when notarizing a document:

• Your name printed, typed or stamped as commissioned 
• The country of commission
• The commission expiration date
• The words “Acting in the County of [insert county]”

Notary journals are also not required but recommended. 

More Resources 

• Notary Application and Instructions PDF 
• Michigan Department of State: Notary Application 
• Michigan Law on Notarial Acts: Act 238 of 2003
• Michigan Department of State: Becoming a Michigan Notary Public
• Michigan Department of State: E-Notary and Remote Notary Guide 2019 
• Michigan Department of State: Notary Services 
• Michigan Department of State: Notary FAQs 
• Michigan Secretary of State: Online Services MiLogin