How To Become A Notary In Florida
A notary public in Florida is a public officer appointed by the state government to serve the public as an impartial witness in performing a variety of official fraud-deterrent acts related to the signing of important documents. These acts are known as notarizations, or notarial acts.
Notaries are responsible for verifying the identity of the individuals signing the documents, ensuring that they understand the contents, and are willing to sign freely, without duress or intimidation.They also certify the execution of documents and administer oaths.
- Eligibility Requirements
- Be at least 18 years old
- Be a legal resident of the State of Florida
- Be able to read, write, and understand English
- Education and Training
- Complete a notary education course
- Pass the Florida notary exam (if required)
- Application Process
- Submit a completed application to the Florida Department of State
- Pay the application fee
- Provide a bond (if required)
- Ongoing Requirements
- Maintain a record book of notarial acts
- Renew commission every four years
- Keep up with changes in notary law and best practices
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Age | Minimum 18 years old |
| Residency | Legal resident of Florida |
| Language | Able to read, write, and understand English |
| Education | Completion of a notary education course |
| Exam | Passing the Florida notary exam (if required) |
| Application Fee | Required to be paid upon application submission |
| Bond | Provide a bond (if required) |
| Record Book | Maintain a record book of notarial acts |
| Renewal | Every four years |
| Continuing Education | Keep up with law changes and best practices |
Eligibility Requirements
To become a notary in Florida, you must meet certain eligibility requirements. You must be at least 18 years old, a legal resident of Florida, and be able to read and write English. Additionally, you cannot have any felony convictions unless your civil rights have been restored. It is also important to have no false or fraudulent notary commission revocations in the past 10 years.
Completing the Application
The first step to becoming a notary in Florida is to complete an official application. The application asks for personal information, such as your legal name, address, and any previous names. You must disclose any criminal history and answer questions regarding your eligibility. The application can be obtained from the Department of State’s website or through authorized bonding agencies.
Education and Training
Florida law requires all first-time notary applicants to complete a three-hour notary education course within one year prior to applying. The course covers Florida notary laws, the duties and responsibilities of a notary, and ethical considerations. This course is offered free of charge by the state or can be taken through approved education providers, sometimes for a fee.
Obtaining a Bond
A $7,500 surety bond is required for all notary applicants. The bond protects the public from any potential mistakes you might make during your notarial acts. The bond must be purchased from an approved bonding agency, and the cost is typically included in the service fees when you apply through these agencies.
Submitting the Application and Bond
Once you have completed your education course and obtained your surety bond, you must submit your notary application and bond to the state for approval. This can be done through the bonding agency that provided your bond, as they often handle the submission process for you.
Acquiring a Notary Seal
After your application has been approved, you will need to acquire an official notary seal. The seal must have your name, the words “Notary Public-State of Florida,” and your commission expiration date. It can be in the form of an embosser, stamp, or electronic seal if you plan to perform electronic notarizations.
Purchasing Notary Supplies
In addition to the notary seal, you may need to purchase other notary supplies. These can include a journal to record all notarial acts, a fee schedule, and an errors and omissions insurance policy for additional protection against liability. While not required by law, these supplies are highly recommended for maintaining professionalism and record-keeping.
Ongoing Education and Renewal
To maintain your status as a notary in Florida, you must renew your commission every four years. This process involves taking another education course, obtaining a new bond, and submitting a renewal application. Staying informed about changes in notary laws and best practices is crucial for performing your duties correctly.
Joining Notary Organizations
Finally, consider joining professional notary organizations for support, resources, and networking opportunities. Organizations such as the Florida Notary Association offer members updates on notary laws, educational resources, and forums to connect with other notaries. Membership can enhance your professional development and help you stay connected within the notary community.