Application Fee
See agencyVerified by WI Board of Business
Notary Public Licensing in Wisconsin
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for notary public in Wisconsin, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 21, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
State-approved examRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Notary Public in Wisconsin
Estimated timeline: 18 yearsCore Requirements
- 1
Education: No educational requirements.
- 2
Experience: Affidavit or referral required.
- 3
Background/Criminal Review: Specific type of conviction prohibited.
- 4
License Type: Secondary license (another license is a prerequisite).
- 5
Any United States resident 18 years of age or older who has at least the equivalent of an eighth grade education, is familiar with the duties and responsibilities of a Notary Public, and doesn't have an unacceptable arrest or conviction record is eligible to apply for a Wisconsin Notary Public Commission.
Continuing education and program notes
- certifies writings - as a deed - to make them authentic and takes affidavits, depositions and protests of negotiable paper
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
WI Dept of Financial Institutions
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$34,800 median (28% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#49 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (6)
- 1. Confirm eligibility prerequisites (License Type: Secondary license (another license is a prerequisite).; Any United States resident 18 years of age or older who has at least the equivalent of an eighth grade education, is familiar with the du...).
- 2. Complete required education or training: No educational requirements.
- 3. Document required supervised experience: Affidavit or referral required.
- 4. Pass required state examinations.
- 5. Prepare supporting documentation (background check: Specific type of conviction prohibited; Experience: Affidavit or referral required.; Background/Criminal Review: Specific type of conviction prohibited.).
- 6. Submit the application to WI Dept of Financial Institutions and monitor board communications.
Salary Insights in Wisconsin
With a median salary of $34,800, Notary Publics in Wisconsin earn 28% below the national median of $48,360. Wisconsin ranks #49 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 18 years.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+2.3%Average Weekly Wage
$1,213Median annual salary
$34,800Hourly estimate
$16.7328% below national median
Difference: -$13,560
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationNotary Public Salary Ranking
#49 of 50 statesfor Notary Public median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | Maryland | $60,470 |
| #2 | California | $57,020 |
| #3 | Rhode Island | $55,370 |
| #4 | Hawaii | $54,260 |
| #5 | New Jersey | $53,940 |
Nearby States Comparison
Notary Public licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wisconsin | $34,800 | No educational requirements | State-approved exam | 18 years |
| Minnesota | $51,050 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Iowa | $45,690 | Degree required | Both state and third-party exams required | Varies by board |
| Illinois | $51,310 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Michigan | $42,220 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 12 months |
License by Endorsement
Transfer requirements are state-specific. Use this quick matrix as a planning signal, then verify final endorsement rules with each board.
| State | Reciprocity Score | Tier | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wisconsin | 64 | Medium | Documented experience may be required. Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
| Minnesota | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Iowa | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Illinois | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Michigan | 72 | Medium | Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Official website verified
WI Dept of Financial Institutions
201 West Washington Avenue, Suite 500, P.O. Box 7879, Madison, WI, 53707-7876
Phone: 6082668915
Related Careers in Wisconsin
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Architect | $93,310 | No educational requirements | Varies by board |
| Audio and Video Technicians | $48,280 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Certified Public Accountant | $78,150 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Civil Engineer | $90,770 | No educational requirements | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Notary Public in Wisconsin?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about 18 years, but timing can change based on education track, exam scheduling, and board processing.
What education do you need to become a Notary Public in Wisconsin?
The board typically expects No educational requirements for Notary Public licensure in Wisconsin.
What is the typical Notary Public salary in Wisconsin?
The median annual salary for Notary Publics in Wisconsin is $34,800. Salaries range from $20,800 (10th percentile) to $58,660 (90th percentile).
How does the Notary Public salary in Wisconsin compare to the national average?
Notary Publics in Wisconsin earn 28% below the national median of $48,360, with a state median of $34,800.
How many Notary Publics work in Wisconsin?
Wisconsin employs approximately 2,140 Notary Publics according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Notary Public license to Wisconsin from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Notary Publics in Wisconsin?
The licensing agency is WI Dept of Financial Institutions. Review agency details at https://www.wdfi.org/Apostilles_Notary_Public_and_Trademarks/defaultNotary.htm.
How often do you renew a Notary Public license in Wisconsin?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.