How to Become a Notary Public in Wisconsin

As a notary public in the State of Wisconsin, you have unlimited financial liability on every document you notarize. You do not want to take the office of Notary Public lightly. The Wisconsin Online Notary Course is the fastest, easiest and most affordable way for you to learn what to do and how to protect yourself as a notary. Whether you are a new or current notary public, you should spend some time learning the laws. It's less expensive than an attorney consult!


How to Become a Notary Public in Wisconsin
Step by Step Instructions

How to Become a Notary Public in Wisconsin

How do I become a Notary Public in Wisconsin?

Source: Wisconsin DFI Notary Public Information. 

You must study and understand the duties and expectations of being a notary public, which are set forth in Chapter 140 of the Wisconsin Statutes and Chapter DFI-CCS 25 of the
Wisconsin Administrative Code. Then, you must

  1. complete an application,
  2. secure a Wisconsin notary bond for a minimum of $500 coverage,
  3. complete the oath,
  4. print the notary exam certificate and submit all forms to the WDFI with the required $20 fee.
  5. You may initiate the application and pay online https://www.wdfi.org/apps/notary/ or download the applications that are available from https://wdfi.org/Apostilles_Notary_Public_and_Trademarks/forms_Notary.htm.

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Commission Term: 4 years
Minimum Age: 18 years old
Residency: US Resident
Stamp/Seal: Stamp or Embosser
Journal: Recommended
Bond: $500
Application Fee: $20
Eligibility: No major convictions
Other: Be able to read and write English.
8th grade education

Address:
WI Department of Financial Institutions, Notary Records Section
PO Box 7847
Madison, WI 53707-7847
Phone: (608) 266-8915 Option 2
Email: DFINotary@wisconsin.gov

Who may become a Notary Public in Wisconsin?

Source: Wisconsin DFI Notary Public Information. 

Any United States resident who is at least 18 years of age may apply to become a notary public. “Resident” means a person who maintains a permanent dwelling place in the United States and is in fact living in the United States. The notary applicant must have at least the equivalent of an 8th grade education and pass the WDFI notary exam with a score of 90% or better.
A criminal record showing felonies and crimes involving fraud, dishonesty, or violations of public trust may be admissible evidence for purposes of impeaching a witness’s character for
truthfulness in a court proceeding. Because a notary public must be a credible witness, an applicant’s criminal record must be free from offenses that could used to impeach the notary public’s character for truthfulness. A person convicted of such offenses may only be commissioned as a notary public if the applicant is pardoned of the conviction.