Getting your Alabama notary commission is a great choice for anyone looking for a new career or a flexible part-time side gig. The state updated the code regulating notaries in 2023, so this application guide reflects those changes and includes up-to-date information.

Note: Your local county may have additional steps or requirements for its notary application process. Before you start your journey toward becoming commissioned, find your county probate judge and confirm your local requirements.

Step One: Meet the Prerequisite Requirements

The Alabama Secretary of State (SOS) sets the notary qualifications for applicants. They include:

• Being at least 18 years old
• Residing in the county where you applied
• Not going through bankruptcy
• Having no felony or crime of moral turpitude convictions
• No current order adjudicating you as incapacitated

Step Two: Complete a Notary Application

If you meet the requirements listed above, you’re ready to complete the State of Alabama Application for Notary Public Commission.

Before you send the application to your county probate judge, sign it using the signature you’ll use when notarizing documents. Include a copy of your driver's license, and don’t forget the application fee. Your county may accept alternate forms of ID if you do not have a driver's license.

If you purchase our Alabama Notary package, you will receive detailed instructions for submitting your application to your local probate judge's office.

Step Three: Complete the Training Requirements

Within 30 days of submitting your application, you need to complete the state’s free notary training course. The training was prepared by the Alabama Probate Judges Association and the Alabama Law Institute.

Once you finish the course, print the completion certificate. You’ll need to send it to your probate judge once your application is approved.

Step Four: Obtain a Surety Bond and Seal

Upon application approval, you’ll receive a letter of appointment in the mail. Once you get it, you have 40 days from the date shown on the letter to obtain the state-required $50,000 surety bond and a seal.

Surety bonds protect the public (your future clients) from financial damages caused by any unintentional errors or negligent acts you commit while notarizing.

Your seal is used to authenticate your official acts and verify that you executed your notarizations according to state law.

Don’t spend time looking around for a surety bond and stamp! We offer a convenient all-in-one supplies package that simplifies the process by including:

• The $50,000 bond
• A state-compliant seal and custom stamp
• A frameable certificate

Step Five: Present Materials to Your Local Probate Office

Bring or send proof of your notary bond, the training completion certificate and the recording fee to your local probate court’s recording division. After they record your bond, they will mail you your notary commission.

Step Six: Get Your Custom Notary Seal

If you purchased our supplies package, you need to send us a copy of your commission so we can create your custom seal and stamp. Email a copy to info@notaries.com, and we’ll send you your new stamp as soon as possible.

Once you have your stamp, you can start notarizing!

Frequently Asked Questions

What notary fees can I collect?

According to the state, you can collect a reasonable fee that does not exceed $10 for each notarial service performed.

Do I need to take an exam?

No. You must complete a training course, but there is no exam.

Do I need a record journal?

A journal is not required for in-person notarial acts, but we strongly suggest one. Maintaining an up-to-date journal helps you prevent fraud and keep an official record for future reference.

Do I need errors and omissions insurance?

Errors and omissions (E&O) insurance is not required but highly encouraged. If a client files a claim against you over an alleged mistake or omission, an E&O policy would protect you according to the coverage that you selected. Without an E&O policy, you are held personally liable in the event of a lawsuit. You can never be too careful when it comes to protecting yourself. Learn how to avoid massive legal fees here.

Can I perform remote notarization?

Yes. In 2021, the state changed its laws to allow remote ink notarizations for acknowledgments, with restrictions. A commissioned notary can perform an online acknowledgment if they are located in the state, use specific videoconferencing equipment and use additional ID verification. Read the entire bill here.