How to Become a Notary in Alabama

What Are the Requirements to Become a Notary in Alabama? 

Eligibility

To become a notary in Alabama, you must meet the following requirements:

• Be at least 18 years old
• Be a resident of Alabama
• Be a resident of the county where applying
• Successfully complete the required training program prepared by the Alabama Probate Judges Association and the Alabama Law Institute within 30 days after submitting an application to the Judge of Probate’s Office
• Attorneys are not required to complete training

Grounds for Denial of Commission

The Probate Judge has the authority to accept or deny any application for a notary commission. Furthermore, judges of probate are now required to deny a notary public commission application on the following grounds:

• The applicant is not a resident of Alabama.
• The applicant submits the application to the incorrect probate judge.
• The applicant submits the application to a probate judge outside their county of residence.
• The applicant has been convicted of a felony or crime of moral turpitude.
• The applicant is currently a debtor in a bankruptcy proceeding.
• The applicant is under a current order adjudicating him or her to be incapacitated.
• The applicant provides false information on the application.
• The applicant is unable or unwilling to successfully complete the required training program within 30 days after submitting his or her application.
• This time frame may be extended by the judge of probate upon good cause shown.

Training

Notary public applicants must complete a training program prepared by the Alabama Probate Judges Association and the Alabama Law Institute that reinforces and updates applicants' knowledge of all matters relevant to the appointment, authority, duties, and legal and ethical responsibilities of a notary public. Failure to do so will result in a denial of commission. Attorneys who become Alabama notaries are exempt from this training.

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How to Apply to Become a Notary in Alabama

If you meet the requirements to become a notary in Alabama, follow the steps below to apply for your notary commission:

Step 1: Order Your Alabama Notary Public Bond & Supplies. 

As part of the application process, you must obtain a $50,000 surety bond, also known as a notary bond, from a bonding agency such as Notary Public Underwriters. This bond is intended to protect the public from any financial loss caused by notarial misconduct.

When you visit our Become a Notary page, you’ll notice that all of our packages include the notary bond, a notary stamp and a record book. While using a record book is optional in Alabama, most Alabama notaries rely on it as an essential tool. A record book provides a written log of your official acts, helping you recall specific notarizations if they are ever questioned. This can be especially valuable if you face a claim for performing a notarial act improperly.

Next, you will be directed to provide information in our online application process to confirm your eligibility for an Alabama notary commission and allow us to fulfill your order. After completing this information, you will customize your notary package by selecting the case color of your notary stamp and adding any additional supplies you need. 

Although not required by law, it's a good idea to invest in a notary E&O insurance. Many notaries confuse an E&O policy with the notary bond, but they are entirely different products. The notary bond protects the public; if a claim is made against your bond, you must repay it. On the other hand, Notary E&O insurance protects you, the notary, from financial liability for unintentional mistakes or oversights, up to the policy limit. There is no deductible, and you are not required to repay it. Without this coverage, you would be responsible for all fees or expenses related to defending yourself.

At the end of checkout, your notary application will be available for download. You will need it for the next step.

Step 2: Submit Your Application.

If you used our online application process, you should have already downloaded the application. If not, log in to your account and download it from the "Notary Application" tab. Review your application carefully to ensure all information is correct, and sign it.

Before filing your application with the Judge of Probate’s office, include a copy of your Alabama Driver’s License or non-driver identification. If you don’t have a current driver’s license, check with your local Judge of Probate’s office for a list of acceptable forms of identification. To find contact information for your county, visit https://www.sos.alabama.gov/city-county-lookup.

Step 3: Receive Your Notary Bond.

After your application is approved, you will receive a letter of appointment. Email a copy of your letter of appointment to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. so we can email your notary bond.

Step 4: Complete the Notary Public Training Course.

All notary applicants, unless otherwise exempt by law, must complete the notary training course within 30 days of submitting their notary application. Once completed, print the course completion certificate—you will need it to file with your notary bond.

Step 5: File Your Paperwork with the County.

File your notary bond, course completion certificate, and county filing fees with your local Judge of Probate’s office within 40 days of the date on your letter of appointment. Failure to file your bond within the 40 days may result in denial of your application or the need to reapply.

Step 6: Receiving Your Order.

Once you receive your notary commission certificate, email a copy of it to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. Upon receipt of your commission certificate, we will manufacture your notary supplies and ship them within three business days. Once your supplies arrive, you may begin performing your duties as a notary!

How Much Does It Cost to Become a Notary in Alabama? 

The $50,000 notary bond is $70 with Notary Public Underwriters, and the filing fee varies by county. You will also need to purchase a notary stamp so that you can carry out your duties. These vary in price depending on the style you like. Below is a breakdown of our most popular package for becoming a notary. Please note that the county filing fee is not included.

Alabama Notary Public FAQs

What Is a Notary Bond?

All Alabama applicants must obtain a $50,000 surety bond, also known as a notary bond, from an approved bonding agency such as Notary Public Underwriters. This bond protects the public from financial loss caused by notarial misconduct.

How Do I Obtain a Notary Bond in Alabama?

Visit our Become a Notary page to purchase the notary bond and other state-required items. 

Not a new applicant? Visit our Renew Commission page!

Can I Become a Notary in Alabama if I Live in Another State but Work in Alabama?

No, you must be a legal resident of Alabama to be eligible for an Alabama notary commission.

How Long Does It Take to Become a Notary in Alabama?

The timeframe depends on how quickly each step of the process is completed.

Where Can I Perform Notarizations?

An Alabama notary can perform notarial acts anywhere within the state’s borders.

What Fees Can an Alabama Notary Charge for Their Services?

Alabama notaries are authorized to charge $10 per notarial act. However, Alabama state, county, and municipal employees are prohibited from charging fees for notarial acts performed as part of their public service, unless otherwise provided by law.

How Long Does an Alabama Notary Commission Last?

An Alabama notary commission is valid for four years. To maintain your status as a notary, you will need to renew your commission before it expires.

How Do I Renew My Notary Commission in Alabama?

To renew your notary commission in Alabama, you must meet the same eligibility requirements, obtain a new notary bond and supplies, and reapply. Begin the renewal process at least two months before your current commission expires to avoid potential delays.