How to Become a Notary, Florida
A notary public is a person authorized by the government to authenticate documents and signatures. In Florida, you must submit an application through a bonding company approved by the Department of State, Notary Commission and Certifications Section. Here's how to become a notary public in the State of Florida.
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Things You'll Need
- Access to a notary public bonding company
- A completed notary education course
- $39 application fee
Instructions
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To be eligible to be a notary in Florida you must be 18 years of age, you must be a full-time Florida resident and you must be a legal U.S. citizen. Legal residents who are not citizens must submit a Declaration of Domicile which is available from your local county clerk's office.
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Find a bonding company that can submit your application electronically. The officer of the governor maintains a list of bonding companies that can process your application to be a Florida notary public. The only way to apply and become a certified notary in Florida is to use one of their approved agencies. The application must be submitted electronically. (See Resources below.)
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Take the three-hour notary education course. Organizations that facilitate the required education course are also available from the governor's office.
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Make sure the bonding company you choose supplies an application, completes your payment of state fees, writes your notary bond, and supplies your notary seal. One payment to the bonding company will cover all of those items.
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Processing is usually completed within two to three weeks and documents and seals are delivered to you through your bonding company.
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Tips & Warnings
Prices for notary education courses vary. Shop around for one that suits your budget. The $39 fee is fixed by law, but the bond premium and the notary seal are priced by each bonding company.
The State of Florida does not give out applications or provide notary seals. You must go through a bonding company.
