Notary Public Act Revisions
Senate Bill 322 Amends Alabama Code 36-20-70, 71, 72, 73.1, 74, and 75
As of September 1, 2023; all citizens desiring to become a Notary Public, must now participate in an online training course and complete the new Statewide Notary Public Application; all of which can be accessed at the Alabama Probate Judge Association website.
Revised Steps
Step 1
- Visit the Alabama Probate Judge Association
- Click on "Notary Public Training" at the top of the page.
- Click Step 1 and download the application.
- Complete the application online and print it. Your name on the application (line 11), the bond, and the training certificate MUST match.
Step 2
Take your application to your local Judge of Probate Recording office. (You MUST file your application in the county where you reside; the Probate Office reserves the right to ask for proof of residency). With your application, there will be a $10.00 CASH non-refundable application fee.
Step 3
The Probate Office will begin the Application Review Process. This could take up to 3 to 5 days. The Application Review Process consists of using your personal information to conduct a background check. The following will disqualify your application:
- Applicant has been convicted of a felony or crime of moral turpitude
- Applicant is currently a debtor in a bankruptcy proceeding
- Applicant is under a current order adjudicating applicant to be incapacitated
- Applicant provides false information on the application
- Applicant is unable or unwilling to successfully complete the required training program within 30 days of submission of application.
Once you receive notice that you have qualified, you will proceed with Steps 4-6 from the alpja.org website. You will either receive notice that you have qualified by email or phone. If you did not qualify, you will receive notice by mail. Remember to print your Certificate of Training from Step 4, this will be a required document to file when completing the Notary Public Process.
Attention Attorneys
The revision exempts attorneys from completing the Notary Public Training. However, in addition to filing your Notary Bond, you will be required to provide a copy of your Alabama State Bar Membership Card in lieu of the Certificate of Training.
Step 4
By this time, you should have received notice that you qualified or have been denied. If you have been denied, no further action is required. If you have qualified; bring the following documents to our office for recording and to complete the Notary Process:
- $50,000 Bond
- Driver's License
- Certificate of Training
- Additional $53.00
