Georgia Notary Guide
How to Become a Notary Public in Georgia
This guide covers all requirements, costs, timelines, and eligibility criteria you need to commission as a Notary Public in Georgia.
Steps to Becoming a Notary Public in Georgia
- Meet Georgia Notary eligibility requirements
- Purchase a $10,000 surety bond
- Complete and submit the Notary Public application online
- Pass a short notary qualification test (if required by county)
- Take the oath of office before a notary or county official
- Receive your Notary commission certificate
- Purchase your official seal and journal
- Renew your commission every four years
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Georgia Notary Public Process
Notary commissions in Georgia are valid for four years. The Secretary of State oversees appointments. Notaries are authorized to perform acknowledgments, administer oaths and affirmations, execute jurats, and certify copies.
Cost to Become a Notary in Georgia
The total cost varies based on required and optional supplies. Below is a cost breakdown:
| Item | Cost | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Application Fee | $10 | Paid to the Secretary of State |
| $10,000 Surety Bond | $30–$60 | Required for issuance |
| Notary Certification Test (if required) | $0–$15 | Test fee varies by county |
| Notary Seal/Stamp | $15–$35 | Must meet state design standards |
| Notary Journal | $20–$50 | Required for official recordkeeping |
| Total Estimated Cost | $75–$170+ | Varies depending on county and supply costs |
Commission Processing Time
Once you submit your completed application, bond, and oath, processing usually takes 5–10 business days, depending on workload and verification checks.
Georgia Notary Requirements
To qualify, you must:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Be a Georgia resident (or a resident of a bordering state who works in Georgia)
- Be a legal U.S. citizen or permanent resident
- Be able to read and write English
- Have no felony convictions; those with felony history must show official restoration of civil rights
Bonding & Application
- Purchase a $10,000 surety bond from a licensed provider
- Complete the online application, upload your bond, and pay the $10 fee
- Some counties require passing a qualifying test on notary law; check with your county
- Once appointed, you will receive a commission certificate by mail or electronically
Oath of Office
Take the oath before a Georgia notary, judge, or clerk of superior court. Your bond and oath are filed at the county courthouse. Only after filing may you begin notarial duties.
Georgia Notary Supplies
To perform notarizations in Georgia, Notaries need:
- Notary Seal or Stamp – Must include your name, “Notary Public,” county, and commission expiration date
- Notary Journal – Georgia requires maintaining a journal of all notarial acts, recording date, signer, type of act, and fee
Renewing a Georgia Notary Commission
Notary commissions must be renewed every four years:
- File a renewal application and pay the $10 fee
- Purchase a new $10,000 surety bond
- Take and file the oath of office again
- Order a new seal reflecting the updated term expiration date
Conclusion
Becoming a Notary Public in Georgia involves eligibility verification, bonding, application submission, oath filing, and obtaining proper supplies. Once commissioned, you’ll hold a trusted public office with a four-year term and legal authority to notarize in Georgia.