alabama | National Database

Step-by-Step Guide to Becoming a Notary Public in Alabama

Eligibility Requirements

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

- Be at least 18 years old

- Be a resident of the county in which you are applying

- Be able to read and write English

- Have no felony convictions

Determine the County of Application

In Alabama, notary public applications are processed at the county level. You need to apply through the probate court in the county where you reside.

Complete the Application Form

Each county may have its own specific application form. You can usually find these forms on the website of your county's probate court. Here are some examples:

Jefferson County: [Jefferson County Notary Application] (https://www.jeffersoncountyclerk.org/probate)
Mobile County: [Mobile County Notary Information] (https://probate.mobilecountyal.gov/)
Montgomery County: [Montgomery County Notary Public Information] (https://www.mc-ala.org/government/probate-court/notary-public)

For other counties, you should visit the respective county probate court website or contact their office directly.

Submit the Application and Pay Fees

Submit your completed application form to your county's probate court along with the required fee. Fees may vary by county, so check with your local probate court for the exact amount.

Obtain a Surety Bond

Alabama requires notaries to have a surety bond of $25,000. This bond can be obtained from insurance companies or bonding companies. Here are some resources:

[Surety Bonds Direct] (https://www.suretybondsdirect.com/surety-bond/notary-alabama)
[Notary Rotary] (https://www.notaryrotary.com/alabama/notary_bond.html)

Take the Oath of Office

After submitting your application and obtaining the surety bond, you will need to take an oath of office. This is typically done at the probate court.

Receive Your Notary Commission

Once all requirements are met and your application is approved, you will receive your notary commission from the probate court.

Purchase Notary Supplies

To perform notarial acts, you will need a notary seal and a record book. These supplies can be purchased from various vendors, such as:

[National Notary Association] (https://www.nationalnotary.org/)
[Notary Public Underwriters] (https://www.notarypublicunderwriters.com/)

Learn Notary Duties and Responsibilities

It's important to familiarize yourself with the duties and responsibilities of a notary public in Alabama. You can find more information on the Alabama Secretary of State’s website:

[Alabama Secretary of State Notary Information](https://www.sos.alabama.gov/administrative-services/notaries-public)

Summary

Eligibility Requirements: Meet the age, residency, and other requirements.
Determine County: Apply through the probate court in your county.
Complete Application: Obtain and fill out the application form.
Submit and Pay Fees: Submit your application with the required fees.
Obtain Surety Bond: Acquire a $25,000 surety bond.
Oath of Office: Take the oath at the probate court.
Receive Commission: Get your notary commission.
Purchase Supplies: Buy a notary seal and record book.
Learn Duties: Understand your responsibilities as a notary.