Steps to Become a Notary Public in Florida
Here are the steps to become a Notary Public in the state of Florida:
- Ensure you meet the requirements to become a notary outlined below.
- Obtain a $7,500 surety bond through an approved bonding agency.
- Enroll in and complete an accredited education course. The Department of State offers a free online course.
- Fill out the application form and remit the $39 fee. Utilize our application wizard to prevent errors. Additionally, a person who has known you for over a year must complete the Affidavit of Character section.
- Non-U.S. Citizens must obtain a recorded Application of Domicile form from the county clerk’s office.
- Confirm your ability and willingness to swear or affirm the oath of office as stated in the application.
- Sign the surety bond form.
- Follow the instructions provided by your bonding agency to submit your application documents and fee.
- Procure your Notary seal. You can opt to order it from your bonding agency or another authorized provider.
- Upon approval of your application by the Department of State, your commission certificate will be issued by your bonding agency.
What Are The Requirements To Become A Traditional Notary In Florida?
In order to become an online notary in Florida, you must meet the following eligibility requirements:
- Be 18 years of age or older
- Reside in the state of Florida
- Have a valid email address
- Be proficient with computers and electronic documents
- Have no criminal record
- Be legally authorized to work in the United States
- Complete a Notary Education Course and pass a state-mandated exam
- Purchase a Notary Bond and E&O (Errors & Omissions) Insurance
- Register with the state as a Notary Public
- Purchase a Notary Seal
Becoming a notary public in Florida may seem like a daunting task, but fear not! With this step-by-step guide, you’ll be stamping documents and officiating oaths in no time. So put on your best notary hat (it’s probably a regular hat, but it’ll feel special), and let’s dive into the wonderful world of Florida notarization.
How long does it take to become a Notary in Florida?
Typically, the journey to becoming a commissioned Notary Public in Florida spans two to four weeks. The timeframe hinges on your availability and the processing period required by the Department of State for your application. To expedite the review of your application, consider utilizing our complimentary application wizard to minimize errors.
What is the duration of a Florida Notary commission?
Once commissioned, a Florida Notary’s term lasts for four years.
Is training mandatory for aspiring FL Notaries?
Yes, individuals seeking their initial Florida Notary Public commission must complete a three-hour course. This course is offered either by the state or through an approved vendor endorsed by the Executive Office of the Governor. The NNA provides an interactive online course that fulfills this requirement, along with supplementary resources to aid in your preparation. This mandatory course must be successfully completed within one year prior to applying for a Notary commission. Upon completion, you will obtain a certificate, which is required for submission alongside your application form. Renewing Notaries are exempt from the educational course requirement.
Do I need to pass an exam to become a Notary in Florida?
No, there is no examination prerequisite for obtaining a Florida Notary commission.
What Notary supplies are obligatory?
Florida Notaries are mandated to utilize an inked rubber stamp seal as their official Notary seal for all notarial acts. While an embosser and a journal are optional, it’s recommended by the Florida Governor’s Office to maintain a journal of notarial acts to record every notarization performed. The seal should incorporate specific details such as your name as per your commission, “Notary Public – State of Florida,” your commission number, and the expiration date of your commission.
What is a surety bond and why is it necessary?
A surety bond serves as a commitment to compensate any individual adversely affected if you fail to discharge your Notary responsibilities with honesty, diligence, and fidelity. Unlike insurance, a surety bond safeguards the public, not the Notary. Florida law dictates obtaining a $7,500 bond from a surety company authorized to operate in the state. For personal protection, you may consider acquiring an errors and omissions (E&O) insurance policy. Although optional for traditional Notaries, this policy can mitigate your financial liability if an error on a notarized document leads to financial harm to the signer. Essential Notary Public Information
Which government entity oversees Notaries?
Notary applications are processed by the Department of State in Tallahassee, FL. This department is responsible for issuing commissions and maintaining Notary records. However, Notaries are appointed by the Governor, and the Executive Office of the Governor provides instructional resources and holds the authority to suspend a Notary for misconduct. Can non-residents of Florida become Notaries in the state? No, individuals must be legal residents of Florida to obtain a Notary commission in the state. Are non-U.S. citizens eligible to become Florida Notaries? Yes, non-U.S. citizens may pursue a Notary commission by submitting a recorded Affidavit of Domicile obtained from the county clerk of their residing county.
Where can Florida Notaries perform notarizations?
Florida Notaries are authorized to conduct notarizations anywhere within the state. Who is eligible for notarization services? Notaries can provide notarization services to any member of the public who makes a reasonable request and meets all prerequisites for notarization, including appearing before the Notary and presenting satisfactory proof of identity. Notarizing one’s own signature or that of immediate family members (spouse, children, parents) is prohibited. However, solemnizing marriages for immediate family members is permissible.
What to Expect From the Job?
As in other professions, the amount of work a notary public receives can vary widely. Generally the busiest times for notaries are during tax season, when documents such as tax returns need to be signed and notarized. However, there is also a steady demand throughout the year from businesses and individuals in need of authentication services. Many notaries are not full time notaries and instead only use their notary commission from time to time.
In the event of marriage or a legal name change, what steps should be taken?
Within 60 days, notify the bonding agency handling your application to obtain a bond rider and request an amended commission from the Department of State. Additionally, a $25 fee payable to the Department of State via check or money order is necessary. During this transitional period, you may continue notarizing documents using your former name until you receive your amended commission.
What action is required for address or personal information changes?
Any changes in business or personal details, including addresses, phone numbers, or criminal records, must be communicated to the Department of State in writing within 60 days of the change.
Common reasons for rejection or delay of Notary applications in Florida include:
Mismatch between signature and printed name Incomplete “race” field Driver’s license information lacking 12 digits Reference to a business address without inclusion of the company name Missing bond form or signature on the form Discrepancies in date of birth compared to state records Mismatch of previous commission number for renewing Notaries
How can I renew my Florida Notary commission?
To renew your Notary commission, you must fulfill the necessary requirements and reapply. The sole distinction is that educational course completion is not mandatory for commission renewals.
Is Online Notarization Legal in Florida?
Yes, remote notarization is legal for notaries in the state of Florida since January of 2020. The state has updated laws and standards of practice which allow for online notarizations. Florida is one of the more progressive RON states. However, there are some extra steps you will need to take if doing any Estate Planning. Florida has the added benefit of being one of the fastest moving states in regards to rules and regulation. They’ve made things easier on their signers by being early adopters to biometrics laws.
Why Should You Consider Becoming An Online Notary In Florida?
Becoming an online notary in Florida can provide a number of benefits for those looking to expand their career or use the service as part-time work. Notaries are increasingly sought after by businesses and individuals, due to the fact that they are an impartial third party who can certify legal documents. Online notaries have become particularly popular over the COVID pandemic.
Do You Have to Take a Course to Become an Online Notary Public in Florida?
Yes, it is a requirement to take a 2 hour state approved course in the state of Florida.
How to Become a Remote Online Notary in Florida
- Already have a traditional commission.
- Complete a RON Training Course.
- Get a $25,000 surety bond + $25,000 E&O insurance policy.
- Select a state-approved RON technology provider (like BlueNotary).
- Complete the Florida Department of State registration form.
- Pay a $10 registration fee.
Once you have become a registered online notary, you will be able to perform online notarizations for documents.
Can I do Online Notary?
Whether you think you can or you think you can’t you’re probably right. The state of Florida is not going to the one stopping you 😉. Just make sure you’re compliant with your SOS Becoming an online notary can be a great way to supplement your income and make a positive impact on the community. All
As an online notary, you get to decide which service provider to use for finding clients. Blue Notary is the best option as we make it super easy for you to onboard and start notarizing documents online. We have training videos and a signing simulator to get you comfortable with the process. We also have a facebook group full of notaries to help you get through the process and walk the path they’ve helped trail before.
You would be able to earn money with each document you notarize. There are no hidden charges that you need to worry about as we have a very straightforward policy. To register and get guided through the process hop on over to our main site.
