Guide to Becoming a Notary Public in Georgia
Becoming a Notary Public in Georgia involves the following steps for residents:
- Ensure you meet all eligibility criteria as outlined by Georgia’s regulations (see below).
- Complete the application process, which may be available online depending on your county. Alternatively, visit the Clerk of Superior Court in your county of residence or employment to submit the application.
- Pay the filing fee of $37 and take the oath of office as part of the application process.
- Obtain your Notary certificate of appointment from the clerk’s office upon approval.
- Purchase your Notary seal to finalize your credentials.
- Consider obtaining Errors and Omissions (E&O) insurance to mitigate financial risks, although it’s optional, it’s highly recommended.
- Enhance your skills and knowledge by participating in continuing education courses or seeking guidance from experienced Notary experts. While optional, these additional resources can be invaluable for your Notary career.
Requirements to Become a Notary Public in Georgia
To become a Notary in Georgia, applicants must meet the following basic qualifications:
- Minimum age of 18 years
- Residency in the Georgia county where applying, or residency in a bordering state while employed or conducting business in the county
- U.S. citizenship or legal residency
- Proficiency in reading and writing English
- Possession and provision of a functional telephone number
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What training is necessary?
While training isn’t mandatory for Georgia Notaries, the Georgia Superior Court Clerks’ Cooperative Authority offers a free online course explaining Notary law and procedures. Additionally, you can request “The Georgia Notary Handbook” through their online ordering system or by filling out a mail-in form on their website.
Is an exam required?
No, Georgia doesn’t mandate passing an exam to become a Notary. However, the state provides an optional Notary Public Final Exam for $10 if you opt for their online training course.
Are there county-specific requirements?
Yes, Georgia’s Notary application process varies by county, with each of the 159 counties potentially having additional requirements. While this page covers state-level information, it’s crucial to check your County Clerk’s website for specific steps. For instance, counties like Clayton, Cobb, and Fulton may necessitate Notary-specific training and exam completion, unlike Cherokee County.
What supplies are essential?
For every notarization, you’ll require a Notary seal, which can be either an inked stamp or an embosser. It must include your
- Your name
- “Notary Public,”
- “Georgia” or “GA,” and
- optionally, your commission expiration date.
Quality and durability vary among vendors, so ensure the stamp doesn’t bleed to prevent document rejection. While a Notary journal isn’t legally required, it’s considered best practice for record-keeping purposes.
Do I need Georgia Notaries require a surety bond or insurance?
No, Georgia Notaries aren’t obligated to obtain a bond. However, many opt for errors and omissions (E&O) insurance as a safeguard against legal expenses, although it’s not mandatory.
Georgia Notary Public Frequently Asked Questions
Which governmental body oversees Notaries in Georgia?
Notaries in Georgia are appointed and commissioned by Georgia’s superior court. However, the Georgia Superior Court Clerks’ Cooperative Authority (GSCCCA) maintains a statewide central database of all Notaries. The GSCCCA is headquartered in Atlanta, GA.
Where can I obtain Notary training?
While Georgia doesn’t mandate training, numerous reputable Notary Public training providers can be found online. It’s essential to note that the GSCCCA doesn’t offer workshops or seminars, nor does it endorse any businesses providing Notary Public training. As the GSCCCA lacks jurisdiction over Notary training providers, thorough research into any company you intend to engage with is recommended.
Is assistance available for becoming a Notary?
Certainly. Several companies offer Notary training, supplies, insurance, and aid throughout the application process. Additionally, the GSCCCA website provides the application with submission details if you wish to proceed independently.
Where can I perform notarizations?
Notaries in Georgia have the authority to notarize documents anywhere within the state.
Whom can I notarize for?
Notaries may notarize documents for anyone except themselves. They are barred from notarizing their own signatures or documents in which they have an interest. While Georgia law doesn’t explicitly forbid notarizing for relatives or spouses, limitations may exist if notarizations are conducted as part of employment.
What are the procedures for updating personal information?
Any changes to address, phone number, or name must be reported to the appointing superior court clerk within 30 days. Notaries must complete the Notary Public Contact Information Change Form and submit it to the appointing superior court clerk, with a copy sent to the GSCCCA.
Regarding name changes, Notaries must wait for confirmation from the clerk before obtaining a new seal and performing notarizations under the new name.
What legal risks may I encounter as a Notary?
The extent of legal risk varies. Notaries face potential liability for unintentional errors or intentional misconduct. Lawsuits resulting from such actions can be financially burdensome, even if the Notary is innocent. Maintaining meticulous records and adhering strictly to the law can mitigate risks.
How do I renew my Georgia Notary commission?
The renewal process mirrors the initial application process. Notaries can submit a renewal application up to 30 days before the commission expiration date. Consider purchasing a new Notary seal reflecting the updated expiration date and obtaining a new record book if needed.
Is remote online notarization (RON) legal in Georgia?
While RON is not permitted in Georgia, it’s legal in 47 other states. Familiarize yourself with RON procedures and which states notaries are able to use BlueNotary. All state signing parties are able to.
