Wisconsin notary public
Exam requiredWhat it takes to become a notary public in Wisconsin, from the state's official commissioning authority.
- Written exam
- Exam required
- Administered by
- Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions (state-administered online tutorial and exam)
- Commission term
- 4 years
- Surety bond
- $500
- Notes
- Notable: WI requires a notary exam with a high 90% passing threshold, taken within one year prior to application. Licensed WI attorneys applying for permanent commissions are exempt from the bond.
Some Wisconsin details were ambiguous on the official site when we researched this (July 2026) — double-check specifics with the commissioning authority before you rely on them.
Preparing to be a Wisconsin notary
Wisconsin requires a written exam, and PrepTempo's Notary course covers the notarial concepts it tests — notarial acts, identifying signers, journals and seals, and unauthorized practice of law. Study your Wisconsin statute on top of the core.
Start the Notary course →Official sources
Educational information only, researched July 2026 — not legal advice. Requirements change; confirm with the Wisconsin commissioning authority. PrepTempo is not affiliated with any state authority or the National Notary Association.