Becoming a notary public in Alabama is a meaningful way to serve your community, enhance your professional credentials, and open up flexible income opportunities.
With recent updates to Alabama’s notary laws taking effect on September 1, 2023, it’s essential to understand the current requirements and process. This guide offers a clear, step-by-step overview of the process for becoming an Alabama notary in 2025.
Eligibility Requirements
Before applying, make sure you meet Alabama’s eligibility criteria:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Be a resident of the Alabama county where you apply
- Not be currently bankrupt
- Have no felony convictions or crimes involving moral turpitude
- Not be under any court order declaring incapacity
- Be able to read and write English
Note: Residents of other states who work in Alabama are not eligible to apply.
Step 1: Complete and Submit Your Notary Application
Start by downloading and completing the official Alabama notary application form. Submit your completed application to your local Probate Judge’s office along with:
- A copy of your valid Alabama driver’s license or state ID
- The $10 non-refundable application fee
You can locate your Probate Judge’s office and mailing address online or visit in person.
Step 2: Complete the Mandatory Notary Training Course
Alabama law now requires all new and renewing notaries to complete a state-approved training course within 30 days of submitting their application. This free online course covers your duties, responsibilities, and updated legal requirements. After completion, print your Course Completion Certificate.
Step 3: Receive Approval from the Probate Judge
After reviewing your application, the Probate Judge will send you an approval letter. This letter will instruct you to obtain a $50,000 surety bond and provide proof of your training completion.
Step 4: Purchase a $50,000 Surety Bond
Alabama requires a $50,000 surety bond to protect the public from any errors or misconduct during your notarial acts. You can purchase this bond from licensed surety companies, often bundled with notary supplies like your official seal and journal.
Step 5: Submit Your Bond and Training Certificate to the Probate Office
Bring your bond and Course Completion Certificate to your Probate Judge’s office. You will also pay any applicable recording fees (typically around $50-$60). Once recorded, you will receive your official notary commission certificate.
Step 6: Obtain Your Notary Supplies
After receiving your commission, you’ll need:
- An official notary seal (stamp or embosser)
- A notary journal to record your notarial acts (strongly recommended)
Some counties may have additional requirements, so check with your local Probate Judge’s office.
Term and Renewal
Your Alabama notary commission is valid for four years. Renewal requires completing the training course again and submitting a new application before your commission expires.
Additional Important Information
- Authority: Alabama notaries may administer oaths, take acknowledgments, certify official acts under their seal, and perform certain commercial law functions such as protesting notes.
- Fees: Notaries may charge up to $5 per notarization.
- Legal Compliance: Always follow Alabama’s notary laws and ethical standards to avoid penalties or loss of commission.
- Recent Law Changes: The 2023 revisions increased the bond amount to $50,000, mandated training, and updated application fees.
Summary of Costs
Expense | Typical Cost |
Application Fee | $10 |
Surety Bond | Around $140 |
Probate Judge Fees | $50–$60 |
Notary Seal & Journal | $30–$60 (optional) |
Total Estimated | $235–$260 |
Final Thoughts
Becoming a notary in Alabama is a straightforward process when you follow these steps carefully. With your commission, you’ll be empowered to provide essential services that help prevent fraud and support your community’s legal and business needs.
Ready to start your Alabama notary journey?
Visit Notary2Notary.com for expert guidance, training resources, and notary supplies to help you succeed every step of the way!