How to Become a Notary in Minnesota (2026)
Step-by-step guide to getting your Minnesota notary commission — fees, bond, exam, and timeline. All data from official Minnesota state sources.
How to Become a Notary in Minnesota — Step by Step
Meet the eligibility requirements
To become a notary in Minnesota, you must be at least 18 years old, a legal U.S. resident, and either a resident of Minnesota or regularly employed there. You cannot have felony convictions (in most states) unless your civil rights have been restored.
Submit your application to the Secretary of State
File your completed notary application with the Secretary of State and pay the $120 application fee. Most states now accept online applications.
Receive your commission and take your oath of office
After your application is approved, you'll receive your notary commission certificate. You must then take an official oath of office — typically before a notary public, judge, or court clerk — within 30–90 days. Missing this deadline can void your commission entirely.
Purchase your notary supplies
Order your official Minnesota notary seal or stamp and a notary journal/record book. Most states require a specific seal format — check the Secretary of State requirements for approved shapes, ink colors, and required text. Supplies typically cost $30–$60. Estimated cost for Minnesota: $40.
Start notarizing — and consider signing agent training
Once commissioned, you can begin performing notarizations in Minnesota. Traditional notary fees in Minnesota: up to $5 per act (state-capped). For higher earnings, consider training as a notary signing agent (see below).
Get Your Minnesota Notary Training Materials
NotaryPublicCentral has state-specific study guides and training for Minnesota. Use code LEGALCOSTCALC for $10 off.
Minnesota Notary Commission — Cost Summary
| State application fee | $120 |
| Commission term | 5 years |
| Surety bond | Not required |
| Exam | Not required |
| Education course | Not required |
| Notary supplies (stamp + journal) | ~$40 |
| Filing office | Secretary of State |
| RON available | No |
| Est. total startup cost | $160–$160 |
Higher $120 application fee but no bond required. 5-year term.
Source: Secretary of State — Official Minnesota Notary Page ↗
What Can a Minnesota Notary Charge?
Minnesota caps notary fees at $5 per notarial act. $5 per act. RON fee rules not fully codified. Travel fees with guidelines.
Source: Minnesota Notary Fee Authority ↗
Earn $75–$200 Per Signing as a Minnesota Notary Signing Agent
Once you have your Minnesota notary commission, you can earn serious income as a signing agent at real estate loan closings. Loan Signing System teaches you how to find clients and run a full signing business.
Explore Notary Signing Agent Training →