How to Become a Notary in Illinois
Illinois notary commissions are issued by the Illinois Secretary of State. No exam is required. Total cost: $60 - $120. Commission lasts 4 years.
Steps to Become a Notary in Illinois
Submit an application
Apply through the Illinois Secretary of State's office. Complete the application form and pay the $10 filing fee.
Purchase a $5,000 surety bond
Buy a surety bond from a licensed bond company. Illinois has one of the lowest bond requirements in the country.
Receive your commission certificate
The Secretary of State processes applications within 2-6 weeks. Your commission certificate arrives by mail.
Order a rubber stamp seal
Purchase an official rubber stamp notary seal. Important: Illinois does not accept embossers - a rubber stamp is required.
Purchase a notary journal
Buy a bound journal to record all notarial acts as required by Illinois law.
File your oath of office
Record your commission with the county clerk in the county where you reside.
Illinois Notary Requirements
Age & Residency
Minimum age: 18. Must be a resident of the State of Illinois.
Education
Not required for traditional notary commissions. Electronic notaries must complete an approved training course.
Exam
Illinois does not require a notary exam for traditional commissions. Electronic notary certification may require completion of an approved course.
Background Check
Traditional notary applicants do not need a background check. Electronic notary applicants must submit to a background check through the Secretary of State.
Surety Bond
$5,000 bond required. Annual cost: $25 - $50 per year.
Application Fee
$10 filing fee with the Illinois Secretary of State.
Equipment You Need
Notary Seal
Rubber stamp only (embossers are not acceptable). Must include notary name, "Official Seal," county of residence, and commission expiration date.
Required: YesNotary Journal
A notarial record (journal) is required under 5 ILCS 312/6-102. Must include date, time, type of notarial act, document type, signer information, and identification method.
Required: YesWhat Illinois Notaries Can and Cannot Do
Can Notarize
Cannot Notarize
Remote Online Notarization in Illinois
Illinois began allowing Remote Online Notarization (RON) in January 2024. Notaries must obtain an electronic notary commission and use an approved technology provider.
Learn more about RONHow to Renew Your Illinois Notary Commission
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to become a notary in Illinois?
The application process takes about 10 minutes. Processing time is 2-6 weeks. Once you receive your commission, you can start notarizing immediately after purchasing your seal and bond.
How much does it cost to become a notary in Illinois?
Total cost is approximately $60-$120, which includes the application fee ($10), surety bond ($25-$50/year), rubber stamp seal ($15-$30), and journal ($15-$25). Illinois is one of the most affordable states.
Why does Illinois require a rubber stamp instead of an embosser?
Illinois law specifies that notary seals must produce a photographically reproducible image. Embossers create a raised impression that does not photocopy well, so rubber stamps are required.
Can I perform remote online notarizations in Illinois?
Yes. Illinois began allowing RON in January 2024. You must obtain a separate electronic notary commission and complete an approved training course. The fee cap for RON is $25 per act (vs. $5 for in-person).
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