Minnesota residents can become a Notary Public by taking the following steps:
- Meet all qualifications under Minnesota state law.
- Complete the Notary Commission Application.
- Mail the application and $120 fee to the Secretary of State.
- Register your commission with your county of residence and pay the $20 recording fee.
- Buy your Notary stamp.
About the Minnesota Notary Process
The Minnesota Notary commission term is five years. Information about the cost of a commission and more can be found below.
Cost to Become an MN Notary
The cost to become a Notary in Minnesota is approximately $170. The total cost is based on where you purchase your Notary seal.
| Expense |
Cost |
| Application fee |
$120 |
| County registration recording fee |
$20 |
| Notary seal |
$30 |
| Total Cost |
$170 |
Commission Processing Length
It can take two to four weeks to complete the Notary Public commission process, depending on your availability and the time the Secretary of State needs to process your application and mail your certificate.
Minnesota Notary Public Requirements
Here, you'll learn how to qualify for a Notary commission in the North Star State.
Eligibility
To qualify to become a Notary in Minnesota, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Be a citizen or a legal resident of Minnesota
- Be either a resident of Minnesota or a resident of Iowa, North Dakota, South Dakota or Wisconsin
If you’re not a resident of Minnesota, set the Minnesota Secretary of State as your agent for service and process.
Application
Print and complete the Notary Commission Application. Mail the application and check or money order for the $120 fee to the Secretary of State.
Commission Certificate
Your commission certificate will be mailed to you.
Bring your commission and two sample signatures (one that includes your full name and one normal signature you plan to use for notarizing documents) to the local registrar of your county of residence for recording. Pay the $20 recording fee.
Notary Supplies
Notaries must use an inked Notary stamp in Minnesota, which must be capable of being copied together with the paper record to which it is affixed or attached. The seal must include:
- The Minnesota state seal
- Your name as it appears on your commission
- The words "Notary Public"
- The words "My commission expires _______ (date)"
Minnesota Notary Public FAQs
Wondering who you may notarize for or how much you may charge? Find out below.
Which state government office handles Notaries?
The Secretary of State, located in St. Paul, MN, is responsible for commissioning Notaries Public in Minnesota.
Is training or an exam required to become a Notary in Minnesota?
No training or exam is required. The Minnesota Secretary of State does provide a list of organizations that provide Notary education, training and supplies.
You can also learn the steps to a proper notarization, best practices, and more with NNA’s interactive online courses.
Do I need a surety bond or insurance?
A bond is not required. Errors and omissions (E&O) insurance is recommended as it offers protection. If you make an unintentional mistake, or a false claim is filed against you, an E&O policy will cover your legal fees and awarded damages up to the coverage you select.
Do Minnesota Notaries need to keep a journal?
Keeping a journal is not required in Minnesota, but it is recommended by the state.
Where will I be able to notarize?
Minnesota Notaries may notarize anywhere within the state.
Who can I notarize for?
You may notarize for any member of the public who makes a reasonable request and meets all requirements for notarization, such as personally appearing before you and providing satisfactory proof of identity.
You cannot notarize your own signature or perform a notarization if you have a conflict of interest.
What fees can Minnesota Notaries charge per notarization?
Minnesota Notaries may charge no more than $5 per notarial act.
What should I do if I move or change my name?
Inform the Office of the Secretary of the State of any address or name changes within 30 days of such change.
- Address changes: Visit your profile online and make the changes there. You'll be able to print a new commission certificate, which you must re-register with your new county and pay the recording fee.
- Name changes: Fill out a new application, check the "name change" box and sign the application with your new name.
Attach documentation of the name change (e.g. copy of driver's license, marriage certificate, divorce documents or other court documents). Return all documents by mail. There is no fee to change your name, but you will need to purchase a new stamp.
What is the process to renew my commission as a Minnesota Notary?
Minnesota Notaries may renew their commission any time between August 1 and January 31, using the online portal or by mailing the application. Commission terms last five years and expire on January 31 of the fifth year following the year the commission was issued.
What do I need to know about remote online notarization in Minnesota?
On January 1, 2019, Minnesota became the seventh state to allow remote online notarization. Once you’re commissioned as a traditional Notary Public, you can follow the steps in this guide to register as an MN remote Notary.
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Last updated: Jul 29, 2025