Minnesota does require licensing for Abstractors, and not just a "pay the fee" licensing which many licenses in Minnesota are.  There is a test required to become licensed, but no courses to take.  Minnesota is still passing abstracts on purchases, but is phasing it out.  A licensed abstractor can certify additional entries on an actual abstract, but a searcher does not have to be licensed, especially when in the employ of a title agent.  Having relocated from NY in 1998, where no licenses are required except for Notary (and a test), it was surprising to me to have to get licensed here in MN.  Notary licensing here is merely "pay the fee" licensing and Closers are required to be licensed, but the course requirement has nothing to do with closing (it is part of the Real Estate Salesperson's course), but no test.  Perhaps there should be abstracting courses again (I took it while schooling for paralegal in 1985) and also closing courses and title exam courses, with licensing in all states.  This certification sounds like it may appease the regulators.