Become an Electronic Notary in Illinois

Electronic notarization involves notarizing an electronic document using an electronic signature, electronic notarial certificate, and electronic notary seal. To perform this type of notarization, the electronic notary is required to use an electronic notarization system provider certified by the secretary of state. If the notary and the signer meet via audio-video communication technology, the entire electronic notarial act must be recorded.

Below is an overview of how electronic documents are electronically signed, witnessed, and notarized:

1. Usually, a signer creates an account on the electronic notarization system and uploads the document to be electronically notarized in a PDF or Word format.
2. The electronic notarization system tests the signer’s equipment for adequate audio-video connectivity and internet connection.
3. The electronic notarization system instructs the signer to take a clear photo of the back and front of their identification credential to perform the multi-factor authentication procedure to confirm their identity, if applicable.
4. Once the signer’s identity is confirmed, the electronic notary and the signer join the session by means of audio-video communication technology that is recorded.
5. The electronic notarization system should provide the electronic notary with a script containing what to say and ask before performing the electronic notarial act.
6. The signer will then electronically execute the document, as appropriate, in accordance with the laws and rules of the State of Illinois.
7. Once the electronic document has been properly executed, the electronic notary public records the notarial act in their notary journal, completes the electronic notarial certificate, and affixes their electronic notary seal and electronic notary signature.
8. After the document is finalized, the electronic notarization system applies the tamper evident technology.

1- Remote notarization involves notarizing tangible documents using an inked notary stamp and wet signature while electronic notarization involves notarizing electronic documents with an electronic notary seal and electronic signature. 

2- Remote notarizations can only be performed if the signer is located within the state of Illinois. Electronic notarizations, however, can be performed if the signer is:

(a) located in the state of Illinois;
(b) located outside of Illinois but not outside the United States; or
(c) located outside of the United States if the document is (i) to be filed with or relates to a matter before a public official or court, governmental entity, or other entity subject to the jurisdiction of the United States, (ii) involves property located in the territorial jurisdiction of the United States, or (iii) involves a transaction substantially connected with the United States.

3- In a remote notarization session, the notary witnesses the signer sign the documents, the signer sends the document to the notary, and the notary applies a physical notary stamp and wet signature on the document. In an electronic notarization, however, the document is electronically signed and sealed during the notary session.

4- The notary confirms the signer's identity in a remote notarization by viewing the signer’s government-issued identification via the communication technology, while in an electronic notarization the signer's identity is confirmed using a multi-factor authentication procedure that includes the following:

• Remote presentation by the principal of a government-issued identification credential that contains a photograph and the signature of the principal.
• Credential analysis of the government-issued credential and the data on the credential that complies with 5 ILCS 312/6A-103.
• Identity proofing using dynamic knowledge-based authentication assessment that complies with Admin. Code 176.835(c).

Yes. You can find a list of approved electronic notarization system providers on the Illinois Secretary of State's website.

Below is a list of the cost involved with becoming an electronic notary:

• Registration with a certified electronic notarization system provider – Price varies by provider.
• Digital certificate – Price varies by provider.
• $25,000 notary bond– $45.00
• Fee to have the notarial oath administered by an Illinois notary – Up to $5.00.
• Application filing fee – $25.00

The bond amount you need varies depending on your notary status and the type of notarizations you would like to perform.

A $5,000 notary bond is required if you are applying to become an Illinois notary or renewing your notary commission and would only like to perform traditional, in-person notarizations. Click here to start the notary application process.

An additional $25,000 notary bond is required if you are a mid-term notary and you would like to register to perform remote notarizations or electronic notarizations by means of audio-video communication for your current active notary commission. Click here to order the $25,000 notary bond.

A $30,000 notary bond is required if you are applying to become an Illinois notary or renewing your notary commission and you would like to perform traditional in-person notarizations and remote notarizations or electronic notarizations by means of audio-video communication. Click here to start the notary application process.

Yes. Your electronic notarization system provider may be able to provide you with an electronic notary seal and electronic signature at no additional cost.

No. Illinois notary law only allows you to use a certified electronic notarization system provider. Click here for a list of certified system providers.

Your authority to perform electronic notarizations expires when your current traditional notary commission expires.

Yes. Illinois notary law requires notarized electronic documents to be tamper-evident after they have been signed.

A digital certificate, when applied to an electronic document, ensures that the document has been rendered tamper-evident (i.e., provides evidence if the document is ever altered after it is signed).

You can order a digital certificate from IdenTrust. Check with your electronic notarization system providers to see if they offer a free digital certificate.

To view the Illinois notary laws on electronic notarizations, click here.

To view the Illinois notary rules on electronic notarizations, click here.