How to Become a Notary Public in Georgia

This step-by-step guide walks you through becoming a notary in Georgia.

To become a notary in Georgia, you must meet the requirements set by the Georgia Superior Court Clerks' Cooperative Authority and complete an application. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get your notary commission.

1) Meet Georgia’s Qualification Requirements to be a Notary Public

Georgia notary applicants must:

  • Be at least 18 years old
  • Be a U.S. citizen or legal resident
  • Be a legal resident of the county in which they apply or
    • live in a state bordering Georgia and work in the county of application
  • Provide an operating telephone number
  • Be able to read and write in English

2) Complete the Optional Training Course

While training is not required for your commission, the Clerks’ Authority recommends completing this free online training course. It explains Georgia's notary law and reviews basic notary procedures.

3) Apply for Your Notary Commission

Most Georgia counties allow users to complete their applications online. View the list of participating counties here.

If you can complete your application online, follow these steps:

  1. Start the online application here.
  2. Select your county.
  3. Enter the 3-digit code that displays on the screen. (If no code appears, call the Clerks’ Authority customer support at 800-304-5174 or 404-327-9760)
  4. Select the new application type.
  5. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete, print and sign the application.
  6. If your application requires character reference (endorser) signatures, have them sign the application.
  7. Bring your completed application to your county Clerk of Superior Court office to finish the process, pay the appointment fee and take the oath of office.

The process is mostly the same if you cannot complete your application online.

  1. Contact your county Clerk of Superior Court to get an application.
  2. Follow the same process outlined above.

4) Complete a Background Check or Exam (Certain Counties)

Applicants in Fulton, Clayton and Cobb counties must include a certified criminal background check no older than 30 days from a local law enforcement entity.

Additionally, certain counties make applicants pass a notary public final exam. Contact your county’s Clerk of Superior Court to determine if you need to take an exam.

5) Complete the Notary Commission Process

After you take the oath of office, your county Clerk of Superior Court office will provide a notary commission. Now, you need a notary seal.

If you purchased our notary stamp, email us a copy of your commission at info@notaries.com so we can create your seal and stamp that meets or exceeds state requirements.