As a notary public, you perform many essential acts. You can witness signatures, certify a copy of a negotiable instrument, and administer an oath or affirmation.
In Wisconsin, you can become a notary public by purchasing a notary seal or stamp as well as a surety bond. But also, you will have to pass an exam and then submit a completed application.
If you want more information, such as the requirements and how to apply, keep reading this article.
Eligibility
- You must be a person who maintains a permanent dwelling place in the United States and, in fact, lives in the United States.
- You must be at least 18 years of age.
- Must have the equivalent of an eighth-grade education.
- Must be familiar with the duties and responsibilities of a Notary Public.
- Demonstrate adherence to laws according to the Wisconsin Statutes about arrests/citations/convictions.
Application process
Step 1: Take and pass the notary exam
The notary exam is required for new notary and renewal applicants and must be passed with a score of 90% or better, no more than one year prior to the date of your application.
In addition, you can read this tutorial with relevant information: www.wdfi.org/apps/NotaryTutorialExam/TableOfContents.aspx.
It is divided into seven chapters of instruction, each with a short practice quiz at the end. You may take the tutorial as many times as you like and retake it in the future as a refresher.
This course is designed so you can use the gained knowledge to take the final exam, which is located at the end of the list, as shown below. Be sure to print the exam results once you’ve scored 90% or better.
➡ READ ALSO: How to get a power of attorney
Step 2: Obtain a notary seal
It is your responsibility to provide an engraved official seal or official rubber stamp before completing the application form.
The seal or stamp may be of any size or shape, but must state the words “Notary Public,” “State of Wisconsin,” and your name, which must include your legal last name. You may use initials or a shortened first name if you wish, but you must use your current last name in full.
When ordering your seal or stamp, keep in mind that when you later perform notarial acts, you must always sign your name exactly as set forth on your notary seal or stamp.
On the other hand, although the state of Wisconsin does not specifically require the use of a notary journal, it is strongly recommended that notaries public use one to record notarial acts.
Step 3: Buy a surety bond
You will need at least a $500 insurance bond to cover you in case you make a mistake. You can get this bond searching for “notary bonds in Wisconsin.” Alternatively, you can ask a local insurance agent if they sell notary bonds; it will cost around $25-$100.
Step 4: Make your application
- Go to https://www.wdfi.org/apps/notary.
- Click on “New Four Year Commission” if you are applying for the first time.
- Click on “Begin Application.”
- Fill the required information.
- The application contains an “oath of office” and a “bond form.” You will need to complete and submit both.
- Pay the $20 filing fee.
- Print all the documentation (application, oath, bond and printed exam certificate) and mail it to:
WI Department of Financial Institutions.
Notary Records Section.
PO Box 7847.
Madison, WI 53707-7847.
Or by email to DFINotary@Wisconsin.gov.
After you complete these steps, you will receive an email notification within two weeks. On the other hand, note that your notary commission is valid for four years, unless you apply for a permanent one.