If you've been a notary for three years or longer, it's time to start thinking about renewing your commission. Although the steps required for a renewal parallel the initial application, some differences exist.
It’s best to prepare for renewal before your Alabama notary public commission expiration date. It's not as simple as ordering a new stamp. However, it's easy to safeguard your commission income by taking the following steps.
Start by printing the Alabama renewal application. You must send it to your local Judge of Probate with a copy of your driver's license and the application fee. Make sure to confirm that you're a current notary on the application. This indicates you're renewing your credentials.
Here's a list of current probate judges.
Information needed to remain or become a notary includes:
Alabama requires a $50,000 bond from a state-approved agency. The bond pays for clients who may be financially impacted by a mistake on your part. You'll need to buy the bond to renew your commission.
Fortunately, our Alabama Notary Package includes your bond and simplifies the process to save you time and stress. We also provide instructions on submitting your application and bond to the right probate judge's office.
In 2023, the state legislature passed a new law that requires all renewal applicants to complete a pre-commission training program prepared by the Alabama Probate Judges Association and the Alabama Law Institute.
Once you complete the course, you have 30 days to submit the Course Completion Certificate.
Once your application is approved, you will receive a letter instructing you to present your notary bond and course Completion Certificate to your county's Probate Office. This is where you'll pay any remaining fees required to renew your commission.
You cannot continue providing notarizations until you get your renewed commission certificate.
Along with the bond, our Alabama Notary Renewal Package includes a self-inking stamp and a certificate.
But if you need additional supplies, like a journal to record your transactions, check out our extensive inventory.
Your commission will last for four years, just like your original commission. However, we recommend starting the renewal process at least six months before your commission expiration.
Yes, you can begin your Alabama notary renewal online. As noted in the steps above, you must mail the application to the county probate judge. Include the application fee and proof that you completed an authorized course and have the required $50,000 bond.
Yes. Alabama Act 2023-548 was passed in 2023. It requires candidates to complete an authorized training course. It also increased the fees for notarial acts to $10 and doubled the surety bond from $25,000 to $50,000.
