How to Become a Notary in Florida: The Complete Guide
Considering a career as a notary public? It only takes six steps to receive your commission!
But before getting started, you should understand what the Sunshine State requires and what the application process entails, so you can get commissioned quickly and smoothly.
Meeting the Basic Requirements
The state requires that all notaries:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Be a legal resident of Florida*
- Be able to read, write and understand English
- Not have been convicted of a felony, even those kept off your public record**
*If the Office of the Governor requires proof of residency, you can provide one of the following documents:
- Driver's license or FL ID card
- Homestead Exemption
- Voter registration card
- Tax form
- Sworn affidavit
- Declaration of Domicile (for non-citizen permanent legal residents)
**If you have a criminal record, you can still apply if you:
- Provide a written statement of your charges, including the date, crime, circumstances, and details about your life post-conviction
- Submit certified copies of the sentencing order and judgment from the court
- Provide a Restoration of Civil Rights Certificate (RCR)
Honesty is extremely important here. Leaving out information can postpone your approval, so be sure to disclose everything up front.
Costs and Timeline
Before you apply, it's important to understand the required upfront costs so you can budget accordingly and avoid delays in completing your application. Most applicants spend between $100 and $150 total, depending on the provider and whether training or supplies are bundled together. That typically includes a mandatory $39 application fee, $7,500 surety bond, and basic supplies.
The turnaround time for receiving your commission (starting from when you sign up for the course until the moment your application is approved) is roughly two to four weeks.
Which brings us to the application process. Below is an overview of how to get commissioned and how our services can benefit you.
The Six Steps to Becoming a Notary
1. Review State Laws
Upon signing the application, you are swearing to the state that you have read Chapter 117 of the Florida Statutes. It explains your duties, limits, and the right way to perform notarizations.
Reviewing it first will help confirm that you meet the legal qualifications, understand the standards you will be expected to follow, and avoid mistakes or delays during the application process.
2. Complete the Required Three-Hour Course
You don't need to pass an exam to become an authorized notary in the state. However, first-time applicants must complete a three-hour education course from an approved provider.
Our online application gives you the opportunity to take the required online training course. Topics include electronic notarizations, special situations, Chapter 117 rules, and general procedures.
After finishing, print your completion certificate and include it with your paperwork.
3. Get Your Bond and Stamp
A $7,500 four-year surety bond is required. This does not protect the notary. It is put in place to protect the public against damages a notary may cause.
You'll also need to purchase an official notary stamp. It must use black ink and include your name, commission number, and the words "Notary Public – State of Florida."
Our New Notary Package includes both – plus a record-keeping journal, completion certificate, and the state filing fee.
4. Fill Out the Form
After purchasing one of our notary packages, we'll provide you with printable application documents that collect the following:
- Personal information
- Bond details
- Character affidavit (a reference signed by someone unrelated to you who has known you for at least a year)
- Oath of Office (signed before another notary after reviewing Chapter 117)
Both the affidavit and oath require wet signatures.
5. Submit Your Application
This part is easy. Once you've filled out your application form, mail it to our business address (along with any supporting documents):
225 E. Robinson St. STE 150
Orlando, FL 32801
We'll submit it to the state for review on your behalf.
6. Wait for Approval
Processing times may vary, but most applicants receive their commission in three weeks or less. Once approved, we'll send your certificate and custom stamp directly to you.
You're Commissioned! Now What?
Once you're commissioned, you can start working immediately. But before you take on your first assignment, it's important to understand where your responsibilities begin and end. Here are a few do's and don'ts all new notaries should understand.
Do's:
- Do verify the signer's identity using a valid government-issued photo ID or personal knowledge
- Do keep accurate records of every notarization
- Do store your stamp and journal securely
- Do ensure your surety bond stays active throughout your term
Don'ts:
- Don't notarize documents for yourself, family members, or if you have a financial interest
- Don't proceed if the signer isn't present, can't be properly identified, or doesn't appear willing or aware
- Don't exceed allowed pricing limits or charge for services not performed
- Don't give legal advice unless you are a licensed attorney
Violating these rules can lead to fines, civil action, or the loss of your notary public commission.
Expanding Your Services Beyond Traditional Notarizations
Notary services are needed throughout the state for a wide range of transactions, including real estate closings, healthcare forms, financial paperwork, and travel consent letters. Because of this broad, multi-industry demand, many notaries combine traditional appointments with specialty services to meet client needs, create multiple income streams, and boost their earning potential. Below are some of the most popular.
Mobile Services
Mobile notaries travel directly to clients, often meeting them at their home, office, or other locations. This is one of the most sought-after specialty services, especially for clients in busy metro areas like Miami, Orlando, and Tampa.
Plus, the state lets you set your own rate for travel-related expenses. Many agents charge between $25 and $75 or more, depending on distance, time of day, and urgency.
Before offering mobile services, check your local county requirements. Some areas require a business tax receipt, even though the core notary requirements stay the same statewide.
Remote Online Notarization (RON)
Remote notarization involves working with clients via secure audio-video technology rather than meeting them in person. For example, a remote online notary from Tallahassee can notarize a document for a signer who is located in another city, state, or even country, as long as the notary remains physically present in Florida during the notarization. To get started, you'll need additional training, registration, an approved platform, and a higher bond amount.
With our RON Upgrade Package, you can serve clients anywhere in the state without leaving your home or office. It's a practical option for reaching more clients while still following all required procedures.
Additional Earning Opportunities
As you gain experience, you may choose to take on more specialized work. Loan signing appointments tied to real estate transactions can bring in $75 to $200 per assignment.
You can also officiate wedding ceremonies. While the ceremony itself is capped at $30, offering add-ons like customized vows or help with license paperwork can increase your earnings.
Start Your Notary Journey Today
As one of the state's top bonding agencies, Florida Notary Service is here to answer your questions and help you get commissioned without delay.