How to Become a Notary in Georgia

Becoming a notary public in Georgia is a straightforward process that opens up new opportunities to serve your community. This guide walks you through every step, from eligibility to receiving your commission. All information is sourced from the Georgia Superior Court Clerks' Cooperative Authority (GSCCCA).

Step 1: Check Your Eligibility

To become a notary in Georgia, you must:

• Be at least 18 years old
• Be a citizen or legal resident of the United States
• Be a legal resident of the county where you apply (or, if you live in a bordering state, you must carry on a business or be regularly employed in the Georgia county of application)
• Provide an operating telephone number at the time of application
• Be able to read and write English
• Complete the notary training course (required as of January 1, 2025)

Step 2: Complete the Notary Training Course

Georgia now requires all notaries to complete an educational training class. The GSCCCA offers a free web-based notary training course that explains Georgia notary law and presents basic notary procedures. After completing the course, you must print your Certificate of Completion — you will need to submit this with your application.

Take the free GSCCCA Notary Training Course →

Step 3: Complete Your Application

Most Georgia counties participate in a web-based notary application process. You can submit your application data online at the GSCCCA Notary Public Application Form page. The process will:

• Guide you through selecting your county and application type (new or renewal)
• Prompt you to print the application packet
• Instruct you to gather any necessary signatures, such as endorsers (character references)
• Have you bring the signed application to the clerk's office for final processing and payment

Note: If your county does not appear in the web-based system, you must contact your county's Clerk of Superior Court directly to obtain an application. Find your county clerk's contact information →

Step 4: File with the Clerk of Superior Court

Take your completed application, training course Certificate of Completion, and the filing fee to the Clerk of Superior Court in your county of residence. Details:

• Fee: $40.00 – $55.00 (varies by county — check with your county for the exact amount)
• You will take the oath of office at this time
• The clerk's office will issue your notary certificate of appointment

Step 5: Purchase Your Notary Seal

Once commissioned, you need a notary seal. You can purchase one from an office supply store or from a notary trade association. Choose either:

• Metal emboss type (embosser) — Creates a raised seal impression
• Rubber ink stamp — Creates an inked impression

Your seal must include your name, the words “Notary Public,” the county where you are commissioned, and the expiration date of your commission.

Step 6: Start Notarizing!

Your commission is valid for four years. You can perform notarial acts anywhere in Georgia. Common notarizations include:

• Oaths and affirmations
• Acknowledgments of deeds and legal documents
• Jurats (sworn statements)
• Copy certifications
• Protests of negotiable instruments

How to Renew

To renew your commission, follow the same steps as the initial application: complete the training course, fill out the renewal application (most counties offer the same web-based process), pay the fee, and take the oath of office. You may use your existing notary seal if the information on it matches your new commission exactly.

Important Notes

• Georgia does not require notaries to obtain a surety bond
• Notaries public are commissioned by the Clerk of Superior Court in their county of residence — not by the Secretary of State
• Georgia residents may only apply in their county of residence; out-of-state residents may apply in their county of employment in Georgia
• The GSCCCA maintains the statewide database of notaries public and is the only agency authorized to issue apostilles for Georgia documents

Need More Help?

The GSCCCA Notary Division is the authoritative source for notary information in Georgia. Visit their website at gsccca.org/notary-and-apostilles/notaries or contact your local Clerk of Superior Court for county-specific requirements.

Ready to get started? Complete the training course, file your application, and once you are commissioned, get listed on Notary of Gwinnett to start receiving clients!