How to Become a Notary in Mississippi (2026)
Step-by-step guide to getting your Mississippi notary commission — fees, bond, exam, and timeline. All data from official Mississippi state sources.
How to Become a Notary in Mississippi — Step by Step
Meet the eligibility requirements
To become a notary in Mississippi, you must be at least 18 years old, a legal U.S. resident, and either a resident of Mississippi or regularly employed there. You cannot have felony convictions (in most states) unless your civil rights have been restored.
Obtain your $5,000 surety bond
Mississippi requires a $5,000 surety bond before you can be commissioned. Purchase the bond from a licensed insurance or surety company — the actual premium typically costs $40–$100 for your entire 4-year term. The bond protects the public from errors you may make as a notary; it does not protect you personally.
Submit your application to the Secretary of State
File your completed notary application with the Secretary of State and pay the $25 application fee. Include proof of your surety bond with the application. 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 Mississippi 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 Mississippi: $40.
Start notarizing — and consider signing agent training
Once commissioned, you can begin performing notarizations in Mississippi. Traditional notary fees in Mississippi: up to $5 per act (state-capped). For higher earnings, consider training as a notary signing agent (see below).
Get Your Mississippi Notary Training Materials
NotaryPublicCentral has state-specific study guides and training for Mississippi. Use code LEGALCOSTCALC for $10 off.
Mississippi Notary Commission — Cost Summary
| State application fee | $25 |
| Commission term | 4 years |
| Surety bond | $5,000 face value (~$40–$100 to purchase) |
| Exam | Not required |
| Education course | Not required |
| Notary supplies (stamp + journal) | ~$40 |
| Filing office | Secretary of State |
| RON available | No |
| Est. total startup cost | $105–$165 |
Source: Secretary of State — Official Mississippi Notary Page ↗
What Can a Mississippi Notary Charge?
Mississippi caps notary fees at $5 per notarial act. $5 per act. RON status not defined in statute.
Earn $75–$200 Per Signing as a Mississippi Notary Signing Agent
Once you have your Mississippi 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 →