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This guide covers all the requirements, costs, processing times, and eligibility criteria you need to get started.
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Becoming a Notary Public in Alabama enables you to witness signatures, administer oaths, and perform other official acts that support legal and business transactions. In Alabama, a notary commission is valid for four years from the date it’s issued.
Each of Alabama’s 67 counties may have slight variations in how they handle applications, so always check with your local Probate Judge’s office for specific instructions.
The total cost can vary depending on your county’s fees and the supplies you choose. Here’s a typical breakdown:
| Item | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Application & Processing Fees | $10 – $25 | Paid to the local Probate Judge (varies by county) |
| $50,000 Notary Bond | ~$75 | Required by state law for all notary applicants |
| Notary Seal/Stamp | $20 – $50 | Must include name, “Notary Public,” Alabama, and expiration date |
| Notary Journal | $15 – $40 | Strongly recommended for recordkeeping |
| Total Estimated Cost | $120 – $190+ | Varies based on local fees and supply choices |
Processing times vary by county. Once you submit your application and bond, it typically takes 1 to 3 weeks to receive your commission, depending on the workload at your Probate Judge’s office.
To qualify as a Notary Public in Alabama, you must:
Be at least 18 years old
Be a resident of Alabama
Be able to read and write in English
Have no felony convictions unless your civil rights have been restored
You may be disqualified from becoming a notary if:
You have been convicted of a felony and have not had your civil rights restored
You have previously had a notary commission revoked for misconduct
Q. Is training required in Alabama?
A. Yes training is required. Beginning Sept 1, 2023, every new and renewing applicant must complete an approved online training course from the Alabama Probate Judges Association and Alabama Law Institute within 30 days of submitting the application.
Q. Is there a notary exam in Alabama?
A. No. There is no written exam required to become a notary in Alabama.
Download and complete the official Alabama Notary Public Application Form.
Submit the completed form along with a valid photo ID to your county Probate Judge’s office. You can find county-specific instructions at AlabamaNotaryPublic.com.
Pay the application fee (typically around $10, but varies by county).
After approval, complete the mandatory online training course within 30 days through the Alabama Probate Judges Association and Alabama Law Institute.
Obtain a $50,000 surety bond from a licensed insurance or bonding company within 40 days of receiving your appointment letter.
Return to the Probate Judge’s office with:
Your training completion certificate
Your notary bond
Payment for the commission issuance and recording fees (varies by county; typically $25–$75)
Take the oath of office, if required by your county, at the time of submission.
To perform notarizations in Alabama, Notaries need:
Notary Seal or Stamp – Must include your name, the words “Notary Public,” the state of Alabama, and your commission expiration date.
Notary Journal – While not required, it is strongly recommended for maintaining accurate records of notarial acts.
Alabama notary commissions are valid for four years. To renew:
Complete a new application
Retake the online training
Obtain a new $50,000 bond
Submit bond, certificate, and fees before expiration date
As of now, Alabama does not authorize Remote Online Notarization (RON). All notarial acts must be performed in person.
Becoming a Notary Public in Alabama is a simple and rewarding way to support your community and expand your professional toolkit. By following your county’s specific process, obtaining the required bond and supplies, and learning your responsibilities, you can begin your journey as a trusted public official.
Let the Notary Public Association help you every step of the way.
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