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This guide covers all requirements, costs, timelines, and eligibility criteria to become a commissioned Notary Public in Illinois.
Meet Illinois Notary Eligibility Requirements
Purchase a $5,000 Surety Bond (or $30,000 for RON)
Complete an Approved Notary Education Course and Pass the Exam
Submit the Online Application with Bond and Certificate
Receive Your Notary Commission Certificate
Purchase Your Notary Seal/Stamp and Journal
Optionally, Apply for Electronic Notary or Remote Online Notarization (RON)
Renew Every Four Years with Education, Bond, and Application
The Illinois Notary Commission is valid for four years. Applications and renewals are submitted online. All notaries must maintain a journal, use an official seal, and keep a current bond on file with the state.
The total cost varies based on required and optional supplies. Below is a cost breakdown:
| Item | Cost | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Application Fee | $15 | Standard 4-year commission |
| Surety Bond | $40–$50 | $5,000 bond required by the state |
| Training Course & Exam | $29–$50 | Mandatory for new and renewing notaries |
| Notary Seal or Stamp | $15–$30 | Must meet state formatting requirements |
| Notary Journal | $10–$50 | Required for all notarial acts |
| Total Estimated Cost | $109–$195+ | Varies based on training and vendor choices |
Most commissions are processed within 1 to 3 business days once your completed application, bond, and certificate are submitted.
To qualify as a Notary Public in Illinois, you must:
Be at least 18 years old
Be a legal resident of Illinois or a bordering state with a place of business in Illinois
Be able to read and write English
Not have been convicted of a felony
Not have had a prior notary commission revoked in any state
All applicants must complete a three-hour education course and pass the associated exam. This includes new notaries and renewals. Attorneys and judges may be exempt depending on status.
Purchase a $5,000 surety bond ($30,000 for remote notarization)
Complete the state’s online application form
Upload your certificate of course completion and bond
Pay the $15 application fee
To perform notarizations in Illinois, Notaries need:
Notary Seal or Stamp – Purchase a notary seal/stamp including your name, commission number, and expiration date
Notary Journal – Obtain a journal (either paper or electronic) and record all official notarial acts
To become a remote online notary in Illinois, you must:
Hold an active traditional commission
Complete additional training and obtain a $30,000 bond
Follow all requirements for digital signature and recordkeeping
Every four years, notaries must:
Complete the required training course and pass the exam
Submit a renewal application with a new bond
Pay the standard fee
Obtain a new seal with the updated expiration date
Becoming a Notary in Illinois requires a few straightforward steps: completing mandatory training, obtaining a bond, and applying online. With your seal and journal in hand, you’ll be ready to perform trusted notarial duties across the state.
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