Michigannotary public requirements & rules
No examMichigan notary law basics: exam requirement, commission term, bond, and how to prepare — from the official commissioning authority.
- Written exam
- No exam
- Administered by
- n/a
- Commission term
- 6 or 7 (varies: 6-year term if commissioned before the notary's birthday in the cycle, 7-year term if after; term always ends on notary's birthday) years
- Surety bond
- $10,000 (filed with county clerk; attorneys in good standing with the State Bar of Michigan exempt since April 2007)
- Notes
- Governed by Michigan Notary Public Act (2003 PA 238, as amended); Secretary of State issues commission.
Preparing to be a Michigan notary
Michigan doesn't require a written exam, but the responsibility is real. PrepTempo's Notary course confirms you understand notarial acts, identifying signers, and how to avoid unauthorized practice of law before you take on the liability.
Free notary practice questions →Michigan notary public FAQ
Does Michigan require a notary exam?
No. Michigan does not require a written notary exam.
What are the Michigan notary public rules for term and bond?
A Michigan notary commission is typically 6 or 7 (varies: 6-year term if commissioned before the notary's birthday in the cycle, 7-year term if after; term always ends on notary's birthday) years. Surety bond requirement: $10,000 (filed with county clerk; attorneys in good standing with the State Bar of Michigan exempt since April 2007). Confirm current amounts with the official Michigan authority.
How do I become a notary public in Michigan?
Follow Michigan commissioning steps: complete any required training or exam (No exam), obtain the required bond if applicable ($10,000 (filed with county clerk; attorneys in good standing with the State Bar of Michigan exempt since April 2007)), and apply through the official Michigan commissioning office. PrepTempo's Notary course covers core notarial concepts for exam and practice readiness.
Official sources
- https://www.michigan.gov/-/media/Project/Websites/lara/bpl/Real-Estate-Brokers-and-Salespersons/Licensing-Information/Real-Estate-Salesperson-Licensing-Guide.pdf
- https://www.michigan.gov/-/media/Project/Websites/lara/bpl/Real-Estate-Brokers-and-Salespersons/Licensing-Information/Real-Estate-Individual-Broker-Licensing-Guide.pdf
- https://www.michigan.gov/sos/faqs/office-of-the-great-seal/notary
Educational information only, researched July 2026 — not legal advice. Requirements change; confirm with the Michigan commissioning authority. PrepTempo is not affiliated with any state authority or the National Notary Association.