Notary Public Permit Requirements in Chicago, IL
Complete permit and license guide for starting a notary public in Chicago, Cook County, Illinois.
Not legal advice. Requirements may change — always verify with your local government authority before applying. This guide was compiled from public and official sources (last updated ) and has not yet been independently source-verified — confirm each requirement before acting on it.
Federal — start here
1 stopEIN (Employer Identification Number)
Required if you operate as an LLC/corporation or have employees. Sole proprietor notaries with no employees may use their SSN.
Official government sourceFreeImmediate (online)
Free
Immediate (online)
State of Illinois
3 stopsIllinois Notary Commission
Apply to the Illinois Secretary of State for a 4-year notary commission. Must be an Illinois resident, 18+, and obtain a $5,000 surety bond.
$10 (filing fee) + bond cost2–4 weeks
$10 (filing fee) + bond cost
2–4 weeks
Illinois Notary Surety Bond ($5,000)
Required for all Illinois notaries. Must be filed with the Secretary of State before receiving your commission.
$30–$60 for 4 years1–3 days
$30–$60 for 4 years
1–3 days
Notary Errors & Omissions Insurance (Recommended)
While not required in Illinois, E&O insurance protects notaries from financial losses due to unintentional mistakes. Coverage of $25,000–$100,000 typically costs $40–$80/year. The National Notary Association offers bundled packages.
$40–$80/yearImmediate
$40–$80/year
Immediate
City of Chicago / Cook County
1 stopChicago Business License (if operating a notary business)
If you operate a standalone notary business (notary signing agent services, mobile notary, etc.) in Chicago, you generally need a Business License from the city. If notarization is incidental to another profession (e.g., attorney, bank teller), a separate business license may not be required.
Official government source$100–$500/year depending on gross receipts1–3 weeks
$100–$500/year depending on gross receipts
1–3 weeks
Terminus
Open for business — est. $75–$350 · 2–4 weeks to complete all steps and receive commission
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