Illinois Notary Requirements: What You Need to Know

Notarization protects the integrity of important documents by verifying the identity of signers and deterring fraud. Illinois has modernized its notary laws in recent years, adding electronic and remote online notarization. Here is what you need to know about notary requirements in Illinois.

Who Can Be a Notary in Illinois?

Notaries public in Illinois are commissioned by the Illinois Secretary of State. Applicants must meet residency and eligibility requirements, and a traditional notary commission runs for four years. Electronic notaries must complete additional registration.

What a Notary Does

• Verifies identity of each signer using acceptable government-issued identification.
• Confirms willingness and awareness, ensuring signers are acting freely.
• Completes the notarial certificate, such as an acknowledgment or jurat.
• Affixes the notary seal and, for electronic acts, keeps an electronic journal and recording.

Traditional, Mobile, and Electronic Notarization

Illinois recognizes several ways to get a document notarized:

• Traditional in-person notarization, where the signer and notary meet face to face.
• Mobile notarization, where a commissioned notary travels to the signer’s location, ideal for hospitals, offices, and closings.
• Electronic and remote online notarization (RON), where the signer and notary connect over secure audio-video technology, now authorized under Illinois law.

Notary Fees in Illinois

Illinois caps notary fees by statute. Traditional notarial acts are limited to a modest per-signature fee, while electronic and remote notarizations carry a higher statutory maximum. Mobile notaries may also charge a reasonable travel fee. Always confirm current fee limits, as they are set by law.

What to Bring to a Notary

Bring the unsigned document and a valid, government-issued photo ID for each signer. Do not sign until you are in front of the notary, the notary must witness the signature.

This article is general information about Illinois notary practice and is not legal advice. Rules can change, verify current requirements with the Illinois Secretary of State.