How to Become a Notary Public in Michigan

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You must:

• Be at least 18 years old
• Be a Michigan resident or have a business registered in Michigan
• Be a U.S. citizen or legal resident
• Be able to read and write English
• Not have felony convictions or certain misdemeanor convictions related to dishonesty or fraud

• Purchase a $10,000 surety bond from a bonding agency or insurance provider
• The bond does not protect you — it protects the public. You may want to also get Errors & Omissions (E&O) insurance for your own protection (optional, but highly recommended)
• We purchased our bond and insurance here.

• Download and fill out this form, then submit it to your local county clerk's office.

• Take your completed application and surety bond to the County Clerk's Office in the county where you live
• Pay a $10 filing fee
• The County Clerk will verify your signature and approve your bond

• After the County Clerk signs your application, mail it (or in some counties, submit online) to:
  Michigan Department of State
  Office of the Great Seal
  7064 Crowner Drive
  Lansing, MI 48918
• Include a $10 state processing fee (check or money order made out to "State of Michigan")
• Submit your application online here

• Once approved, you'll receive your Notary Commission Certificate
• You’re officially a Notary Public for 6 years

Michigan requires a stamp or embosser with:

• Your name (as it appears on your commission)
• The words "Notary Public, State of Michigan"
• Your county of appointment
• Commission expiration date
• Michigan does not require a journal, but it’s strongly recommended for your legal protection
• We purchased our journal and stamp here.

Congratulations and welcome to the Notary Public Community of Michigan!