How to Become a Notary Public in Michigan

Becoming a notary public in Michigan allows you to provide a valuable service for individuals and businesses. Here's everything you need to know to get started, including requirements, costs, and the process for becoming both a traditional and an online notary.

Steps to Become a Traditional Notary in Michigan

Ensure You Meet Eligibility Requirements

Be at least 18 years old.

Reside or maintain a principal business location in Michigan.

Be a U.S. citizen or possess legal residency proof.

Have no felony convictions in the past 10 years.

Not have been convicted of multiple misdemeanors involving the Michigan Notary Public Act.

Obtain a $10,000 Surety Bond

Purchase a bond from a licensed surety company in Michigan.

Complete the Application for Notary Public Commission

Applications can be completed online or via paper.

Ensure your name and address match your ID to avoid processing delays.

File Your Bond and Take the Oath of Office

Visit the county clerk’s office where you reside or have your business.

File your $10,000 bond and take your oath of office.

Pay the $10 county filing fee (this fee may vary by county).

Submit Your Application to the State

Submit your completed application to the Michigan Department of State’s Office of the Great Seal.

Pay the non-refundable $10 processing fee (via check, money order, or online payment).

Receive Your Commission

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

Obtain Notary Tools

Purchase an official notary stamp or embosser.

Maintain a notary journal (recommended but not required for traditional notarizations).

Read the Michigan Notary Public Act

Familiarize yourself with the rules and regulations to ensure you perform notarial acts correctly.

How to Become an Online Notary in Michigan

Michigan allows notaries to perform remote online notarizations (RON) since 2018.

Become a Traditional Notary

Complete all steps required to become a traditional notary public.

Select a RON Platform

Choose a state-approved RON platform like BlueNotary.

File a RON Application

Submit a Remote Online Notarization application to the Michigan Department of State.

Include details about the RON platform you plan to use.

Receive Authorization

Await written authorization from the Secretary of State to begin performing remote notarizations.

Stay Updated

Regularly review Michigan laws and updates regarding RON practices.

Costs Associated with Becoming a Michigan Notary

• Application Fee: $10 (non-refundable).
• Bond Filing Fee: $10 (may vary by county).
• Surety Bond: $50 for a six-year term (costs vary by vendor).
• Notary Tools: Costs vary based on quality and vendor.
• Optional Errors & Omissions Insurance: Cost depends on coverage level.

Michigan Notary Commission Duration

• Michigan notary commissions are valid for 6 to 7 years, expiring on your birthday.
• If commissioned before your birthday in the current year, it lasts 6 years.
• If commissioned after your birthday, it lasts 7 years.

Requirements for Electronic Notarizations

• Notary journals are mandatory for electronic notarizations.
• Obtain a secure digital certificate and electronic seal from an authorized vendor.

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FAQs for Michigan Notaries

1. Can I perform notarizations outside of Michigan?

No, Michigan notaries can only perform notarizations within the state.

2. What identification is required for notarization?

Signers must provide a valid, government-issued photo ID (e.g., driver’s license, passport).

3. How do I renew my notary commission?

• Reapply within 60 days before your current commission expires.
• Complete the same steps as a new applicant.

4. Is training or an exam required?

No, Michigan does not require training or exams, but reading the Michigan Notary Public Act is mandatory.

5. Can I notarize documents for family members?

No, notarizing documents for direct family members or those where you have a conflict of interest is prohibited.

Why Become an Online Notary in Michigan?

Becoming an online notary offers greater flexibility and convenience. You can provide services to clients remotely, saving time and expanding your reach. Platforms like BlueNotary simplify the process, offering user-friendly tools, training, and client management solutions.

Start Your Journey Today

Whether you’re looking to become a traditional or online notary, Michigan offers straightforward processes to get started. With tools like BlueNotary, you can take your notary career to the next level and provide modern, accessible services to clients statewide.

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