georgia | National Database

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

Meet the Eligibility Requirements

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

Be at least 18 years old.
Be a legal resident of Georgia or a resident of a bordering state and carry on a business or profession in Georgia.
Have an operating telephone number and email address.
Be able to read and write English.

Complete the Notary Application

Obtain the Application:

You can download the notary application form from the Georgia Superior Court Clerks' Cooperative Authority (GSCCCA) website: [Georgia Notary Application Form](https://www.gsccca.org/filesandforms/notary-forms.aspx)

Fill Out the Application:

Complete all sections of the application accurately. You will need to provide personal information, such as your name, address, and contact details.
You will also need to provide a notary reference or someone who has known you for at least 30 days and is not related to you.

Obtain Endorsements

Endorsements:

The application must be endorsed by one or more residents of the county where you apply. This endorsement serves as a character reference.

Submit the Application and Pay the Fee

Submit the Application:

Submit the completed application to the Clerk of Superior Court in the county where you reside or where you conduct your business.

Pay the Fee:

Pay the required application fee, which varies by county but typically ranges from $30 to $50.

Take the Oath of Office

Oath of Office:

Once your application is approved, you will be notified by the Clerk of Superior Court. You will need to appear in person to take the oath of office.

Receive Your Notary Commission

Notary Commission:

After taking the oath, you will receive your notary commission certificate. This certificate authorizes you to perform notarial acts in the state of Georgia.

Purchase Notary Supplies

Notary Seal:

Purchase a notary seal or stamp that meets Georgia's requirements. This seal will be used to authenticate the documents you notarize.
Notary Journal:
While not required by law, it is highly recommended to maintain a notary journal to record all notarizations.

Additional Resources

Georgia Superior Court Clerks' Cooperative Authority (GSCCCA):

Website: [GSCCCA Notary Division] (https://www.gsccca.org/notary-and-apostilles/notaries)
Contact Information: [GSCCCA Contact] (https://www.gsccca.org/about/contact-us)

Recap of Requirements

Be at least 18 years old.
Be a legal resident of Georgia or a resident of a bordering state conducting business in Georgia.
Have an operating telephone number and email address.
Complete the application form and obtain endorsements.
Submit the application to the Clerk of Superior Court and pay the fee.
Take the oath of office.
Receive your notary commission.
Purchase a notary seal and optionally a notary journal.

Following these steps will help you become a notary public in the state of Georgia. Make sure to check with your local Clerk of Superior Court for any additional requirements or specific procedures in your county.