Journal Requirements in Michigan
Michigan has a distinctive notary system: Michigan resident notaries receive a permanent commission that does not expire as long as they remain Michigan residents. Non-resident notaries can obtain a 4-year term. For traditional paper notarizations, Michigan does not require a journal. Michigan's Electronic Notarization Standards, adopted under Public Act 238, require an electronic journal for electronic and remote notarizations. The journal must be retained for at least 5 years. Michigan was also an early adopter of RON — the legislature authorized it in 2018, making Michigan one of the pioneer RON states.
Michigan Notary Commission Quick Facts
| Element | Michigan Requirement |
|---|---|
| Governing authority | michigan.gov/sos |
| Commission term | Permanent (no expiration for residents) |
| Bond required | No bond required |
| Exam/training | No exam required |
| Journal (paper notarizations) | Not required — recommended |
| Journal (electronic/RON) | Required — 5 years |
Frequently Asked Questions
Michigan does not have a separate state-issued notary signing agent certification. The notary commission is the legal credential. Most signing services and title companies operating in Michigan require NNA certification, a background check, and E&O insurance as vendor requirements regardless of state law.
Standard government-issued photo identification is accepted: state driver’s license or ID card, U.S. passport or passport card, military ID, and permanent resident card. Always verify current Michigan statutes for state-specific variations. When in doubt, require documentary ID rather than relying on personal knowledge of the signer.
Yes, absolutely. A journal provides contemporaneous documentation of every notarial act. In the event of a fraud allegation or dispute, your journal is your primary defense. Professional signing agents in Michigan maintain journals as standard practice regardless of legal mandate.