You perform a lot of important acts as a nite public.You can witness signatures, certify a copy of a negotiable instrument and administer an oath.If you want to become a public figure in Wisconsin, you need to purchase a seal or stamp as well as a surety bond.You will need to pass an exam and submit an application.Your commission is good for four years.
Step 1: Check that you don't have a criminal history.
You need to show that you've observed Wisconsin law.You can't have disqualifying convictions.You should get a copy of your criminal history.You can't have been convicted of a felony if you've been pardoned.
Step 2: Comply with other requirements
You have to meet a number of requirements to become a public figure.You need to make sure that you are a resident of the United States.You don't have to be a resident of Wisconsin.You are at least 18 years old.You have the same level of education as an eighth-grade student.
Step 3: You have to pass an exam.
You have to take an online course and pass an exam in order to become a Notary in Wisconsin.You have to have scored at least 90 percent on the exam in the past six months.You should read the brochure before taking the exam.You can begin the lesson at the website: https://www.wdfi.org/apps/NotaryTutorialExam/TableOfContents.Print off the certificate after you pass the exam.The state office doesn't store test results, so you have to print it.
Step 4: You can purchase a rubber stamp.
You have to say "Notary Public," "State of Wisconsin," and your name on this seal or stamp.You can shorten or use initials.You must always use your legal name.You should always sign your name in the way it appears on your rubber stamp.Don't sign "Christine Jones" if the rubber reads "Chris Jones".You can buy a stamp or seal from a store.If you want the store to order it for you, you'll have to see a notarial certificate.They should contact the state office if this happens.
Step 5: A surety bond can be purchased.
If you make a mistake, you'll need a $500 insurance bond.You can get this bond if you search for "notary bonds in Wisconsin." Alternatively, you can ask a local insurance agent if they sell notary bonds.The bond will cost between $25 and 100.
Step 6: You have to complete an application.
You can find an application at the website.If you are applying for the first time, select "New Four Year Commission"You can complete the application online.You will need to complete and submit both the application and the bond form.
Step 7: Take an oath.
You will need to fill out a form and take an oath in front of a current notary.The form needs to be signed.You can find a current notary in Wisconsin by visiting your nearest courthouse, town office, or large bank.The American Society of Notaries locator can be found here: https://www.asnnotary.org.
Step 8: You should submit your application.
You can make a copy of the application.The application, bond form, exam certificate, and oath of office should be mailed to the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions.A $20 filing fee should be included.If you apply online, you will pay with a credit card at the time.If you have been approved, you should hear within two weeks.
Step 9: Purchase insurance.
If you make a mistake, your surety bond protects the public.Errors and omissions insurance is something you might want.This is strongly recommended.The defense of a lawsuit will be covered by errors and omissions insurance.Errors and omissions insurance can be found by contacting your insurance agent.
Step 10: Your commission should be renewed.
Unless you are licensed to practice law in Wisconsin, the commission lasts four years.You will need to renew before the deadline.Purchase a surety bond, buy a new seal, complete the renewal application, pay a $20 filing fee, and you're good to go.