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How to become a notary public in Michigan. Commission term: 6 to 7 years, ending on the notary's birthday; not less than 6 or more than 7 years from date of appointment. Verified 2026-04-02. Data verified 2026-04-02. Source: LicenseMap (getlicensemap.com).
Notary Public
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83% of data points are verified against official sources. 2 fields based on preliminary research. We recommend confirming details with your state's licensing authority. See sources below · Report incorrect data
6 to 7 years, ending on the notary's birthday; not less than 6 or more than 7 years from date of appointment
Commission Term
before renewal
No
Education Required
no course needed
No
Exam Required
no exam needed
$10,000
Bond Required
surety bond
You must be a legal resident of Michigan (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.
Submit your application to the Michigan Secretary of State (Michigan Department of State). Application fee: $10 (SOS) + $10 (county clerk).
Obtain a $10,000 surety bond. $10,000 surety bond. Attorneys who are members of the State Bar of Michigan are exempt from the bond requirement. Bond cost: $50-$100 (generally).
Purchase an official notary stamp or seal that meets Michigan requirements. Typical cost: $20-$40. Total estimated startup cost: $90-$160.
Once approved, you will receive your notary commission, valid for 6 to 7 years, ending on the notary's birthday; not less than 6 or more than 7 years from date of appointment. You can then begin performing notarial acts in Michigan. Remote online notarization (RON) is also permitted.
Minimum Age
18 years old
Residency
Must be a resident of the county of appointment, or a non-resident with a principal place of business in the county.
Citizenship
Be a U.S. citizen or possess proof of legal presence
Background Check
Not required
Not sure if you need a notary license? Check whether your state requires one.
Education
Not RequiredNo education course required.
Exam
Not RequiredNo exam required.
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Surety Bond
Required$10,000
$10,000 surety bond. Attorneys who are members of the State Bar of Michigan are exempt from the bond requirement.
Errors & Omissions Insurance
Not RequiredNot required.
Seal / Stamp
RequiredOfficial notary seal/stamp required.
| Fee | Amount |
|---|---|
Application Fee | $10 (SOS) + $10 (county clerk) |
Bond Premium Approximate premium for $10,000 bond | $50-$100 (generally) |
Stamp / Seal Purchased from private vendors | $20-$40 |
Total Estimated Cost Application fees + bond + seal | $90-$160 |
Use our licensing cost calculator to estimate your total investment including education and exam fees.
Submit application to SOS with $10 processing fee
Obtain $10,000 surety bond (attorneys exempt)
File oath of office with county clerk ($10 fee)
Receive commission
Purchase notary seal/stamp
Commission Term
6 to 7 years, ending on the notary's birthday; not less than 6 or more than 7 years from date of appointment
Renewal Process
Submit new application with bond and fees.
Renewal Fee
$10 (SOS) + $10 (county)
Regulatory Board
Michigan authorizes remote online notarization.
Additional Requirements
Must comply with Michigan's RON requirements.
What Makes Michigan Unique
Michigan commission expires on the notary's birthday (6-7 year term). State Bar attorneys are exempt from the $10,000 bond.
Commission term is 6-7 years, ending on the notary's birthday.
State Bar attorneys are exempt from the bond requirement.
No exam or education required.
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