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How to become a notary public in Illinois. Commission term: 4 years. Verified 2026-04-02. Data verified 2026-04-02. Source: LicenseMap (getlicensemap.com).
Notary Public
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67% of data points are verified against official sources. 4 fields based on preliminary research. We recommend confirming details with your state's licensing authority. See sources below · Report incorrect data
4 years
Commission Term
before renewal
Yes
Education Required
online allowed
Yes
Exam Required
state exam
$5,000 (traditional); $30,000 for electronic/remote notarial acts (can be a single $30,000 bond or a $5,000 bond plus a separate $25,000 bond)
Bond Required
surety bond
You must be a legal resident of Illinois (or maintain a place of business there), be at least 18 years old, and be able to read and write English. You cannot have a disqualifying criminal record.
All new and renewing applicants must complete an SOS-approved course and pass its exam. Attorneys, judges, and their employees are exempt from education for renewals (effective Jan 1, 2025). Online courses are accepted. Education cost: $40-$100.
Must pass the exam included in the SOS-approved education course. Administered by: SOS-approved education providers.
Submit your application to the Illinois Secretary of State. Application fee: $15 (traditional) or $40 (traditional + electronic).
Obtain a $5,000 (traditional); $30,000 for electronic/remote notarial acts (can be a single $30,000 bond or a $5,000 bond plus a separate $25,000 bond) surety bond. $5,000 surety bond ($30,000 if performing electronic/remote notarial acts). Bond cost: $30-$50.
Purchase an official notary stamp or seal that meets Illinois requirements. Typical cost: $20-$40. Total estimated startup cost: $105-$230.
Once approved, you will receive your notary commission, valid for 4 years. You can then begin performing notarial acts in Illinois. Remote online notarization (RON) is also permitted.
Minimum Age
18 years old
Residency
Must be an Illinois resident (at least 30 days) or a non-resident from a bordering state with a principal place of work/business in Illinois for at least 30 days.
Citizenship
U.S. citizen or lawfully admitted for permanent residence
Background Check
Not required
Not sure if you need a notary license? Check whether your state requires one.
Education
RequiredAll new and renewing applicants must complete an SOS-approved course and pass its exam. Attorneys, judges, and their employees are exempt from education for renewals (effective Jan 1, 2025).
Online courses: Allowed
Exam
RequiredMust pass the exam included in the SOS-approved education course.
Administered by: SOS-approved education providers
Browse Notary Public study materials on Amazon →(affiliate link)
Surety Bond
Required$5,000 (traditional); $30,000 for electronic/remote notarial acts (can be a single $30,000 bond or a $5,000 bond plus a separate $25,000 bond)
$5,000 surety bond ($30,000 if performing electronic/remote notarial acts).
Errors & Omissions Insurance
Not RequiredNot required.
Seal / Stamp
RequiredOfficial notary seal/stamp required.
| Fee | Amount |
|---|---|
Application Fee | $15 (traditional) or $40 (traditional + electronic) |
Bond Premium Approximate premium for $5,000 bond | $30-$50 |
Stamp / Seal Purchased from private vendors | $20-$40 |
Education Course Varies by SOS-approved provider | $40-$100 |
Total Estimated Cost Application + bond + education + seal | $105-$230 |
Use our licensing cost calculator to estimate your total investment including education and exam fees.
Complete SOS-approved education course and pass exam
Obtain $5,000 surety bond ($30,000 for electronic notary)
Submit application with $15 fee and copy of IL driver's license/ID
Receive commission
Purchase notary seal/stamp
Commission Term
4 years
Renewal Process
Must complete education and pass exam again. Submit new application.
Renewal Fee
$15 (traditional) or $40 (traditional + electronic)
Regulatory Board
Illinois authorizes electronic notarization and remote notarization with additional authorization.
Additional Requirements
Additional $25 fee for electronic notary commission. $30,000 bond required for electronic/remote notarial acts.
What Makes Illinois Unique
Illinois requires a $30,000 bond for electronic/remote notarization, significantly higher than the $5,000 for traditional notarization.
Bond amount increases to $30,000 for electronic/remote notarization.
Attorneys, judges, and their employees are exempt from education for renewals (effective Jan 1, 2025).
Non-residents from bordering states can qualify if they work in Illinois.
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Study guides and practice tests for the notary public exam.
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