Georgia Notary Frequently Asked Questions
Are you a new Georgia notary public? This is a list of our most frequently asked questions about how to become a notary in Georgia and what supplies you will need.
Georgia Notary Public: a person authorized to perform certain legal formalities, especially to draw up or certify contracts, deeds and other documents for use in other jurisdictions. A notary can also be referred to as a signing agent.
See our How to Become a Notary in GA Infographic for an easy breakdown of the steps you will need to take.
New notaries can begin the registry process here at The Georgia Superior Court Clerks' Cooperative Authority.
Make additional income
Increase your skill-set and add to your resume
If working individually, you can make your own schedule
Easy and effective way to help your community
Anyone 18 or older
Legal resident of Georgia (Permanent resident alien allowed) Can also be working/employed in Georgia to apply.
Must apply in the county of residence or employment
You must have no previous commission or professional license revocation, suspension or restriction in any state
No commission of any prohibited act listed in OCGA
No unauthorized practice of law Must be able to read and write in English
Anywhere in the state of Georgia.
As a notary/signing agent, you can notarize for any member of the public who makes a sensible request and meets all the requirements for notarization. It is recommended, as a guiding principle, to avoid notarizing any documents for family members. You cannot notarize anything that has your name or signature on it, nor can you notarize anything that you would benefit from. For Example: Must have proof of identity and be physically present.
The state of Georgia does not require training of any type, but the state does offer training and education though the Georgia Notary Handbook.
Georgia does not require any type of bond or insurance. Errors and Omissions insurance (E&O) is NOT required, but it is recommended.
Although costs for new notaries will vary, the Georgia application fee is $37 to $42 depending on the county
Prices of clerical filing fees may apply in certain counties at varying prices
Prices of Notary Supplies may vary (Notary seal embossers and stamps)
Notary Seal Stamp or Embosser
Stamp must have ink that does not bleed during or after use because documents can be rejected due to smudging. If using an embosser, you must use seal impression inker to make it visible for photocopy and faxing. Your Georgia notary seal will contain the following: Name, Notary Public, County and State of Georgia. Although optional, it is highly recommended to include the expiration date of your commission
Notary Records Journal
Journal is not required, but is suggested as the best way to keep notarization secure in chronological order
Although not a requirement, if you believe it is helpful for your business to have these, then it is a good idea. If you work for a company as a Georgia notary singing agent, then discuss with them if this would be necessary.
Yes, since being a notary grants you certain permissions and responsibilities, there is also the need for insurance which was noted earlier.
Risk should be assessed on a case by case basis, but being a notary signing agent comes with the responsibility of fully understanding the risks involved. Having E&O Insurance can potentially reduce your exposure to risk.
Your Georgia notary commission will last for four years. It is recommended that you apply to renew your commission before the four years is completed.