How to Become a Notary Public in Mississippi

Notaries are appointed to act as an impartial witnesses to the signing and validation of important transactions. In Mississippi, you must complete the licensing process before becoming a commissioned notary public according to the Mississippi Code of 1972 as amended, Section 25-33-1. Continue reading to learn the requirements, step-by-step application process and bonding information.

Requirements for Mississippi Notary Publics 

To become a notary public in Mississippi, you must meet the following eligibility requirements:

• Be at least 18 years old
• Be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident
• Be a Mississippi resident for at least 30 days before applying
• Be able to read and write in English
• Not be incarcerated, on probation, or on parole
• Not have a lifetime felony conviction 
• Not have a notary commission that has been revoked, suspended, restricted, or denied, or have a record of misconduct in any state

How to Get a Mississippi Notary Commission

If you meet the eligibility requirements, follow the six-step process below to become a notary public in Mississippi.

Step 1: File an application 

Complete the application for a notary public commission and have it notarized. Then, mail your application with a $25 check to the address below:

Secretary of State

Business Services Division

P.O. Box 136

Jackson, MS 39205-0136

After the Secretary of State reviews your application, they will assign you a commission date and provide a pre-commission certificate.

Step 2: File a notary bond

When you receive your commission date, you can file a surety bond. The state of Mississippi requires a $5,000 notary bond to ensure that you will uphold legal standards and ethical conduct according to the Mississippi Code of 1972 Sections 25-34-51.

You can buy a $5,000 Mississippi notary bond for just $50 instantly with SuretyBonds.com. Or, you can bundle errors and omissions coverage with your bond for $70–$90. This is recommended to protect yourself from legal damages for common notarization errors. 

Step 3: Take an Oath of Office

You will need to take the Oath of Office as outlined in Section 268 of the Mississippi Constitution in the presence of a notary of the State of Mississippi.

Step 4: Submit documents

Once your bond and oath of office are complete, file them with the Secretary of State at the same address. You must submit these documents within 60 days of your original application.

Step 5: Obtain official notary supplies 

Once you receive your Notary Commission Certificate, you can purchase your notary supplies. The Mississippi SoS provides a list of notary vendors you can choose from. You are required to have a stamp as well as a journal to record all of your work.

How to Renew Your Notary Commission

Notary commissions in Mississippi last four years after the issue date. To renew your notary commission, repeat the same application process within 60 days of your expiration date.

Your notary bond will expire on the same day as your commission and must be renewed. When you choose SuretyBonds.com, you'll receive renewal instructions and an invoice before your bond term ends.

How to Become a Mississippi Online Notary 

To be a remote online notary in Mississippi, you must already be commissioned in the state. You can start by entering your notary ID on the E-Notary Registration portal and researching a technology provider. Reference the remote notarization guidance form for a list of providers

Once you choose a provider, simply fill out the remote notary notification form and email it to [email protected]. 

How Much Does It Cost to Become a Notary in Mississippi?

The cost of becoming a notary public in Mississippi is typically around $110–$215. Exact pricing will vary depending on the surety bond and notary supply vendors you choose. You can expect the following expenses:

• State application fee: $25
• Surety bond: $50–$90*
• Supplies: Varies, typically $35–$100

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

More Resources 

• Mississippi Secretary of State: Notaries  
• Mississippi Code: Sections 25-34-51
• Mississippi Secretary of State: Application For Notary Public Commission
• Mississippi Secretary of State: Notaries FAQs
• Mississippi Secretary of State: Fees and Forms
• Remote Notarization Guidance Form