How to Become a Notary in the State of Florida
Notary publics or notaries are public officers who can legally serve the public in matters usually pertaining to business or real estate. The main duties of a notary are to administer oaths, affirm affidavits and to bear witness to the signing of documents. The duties of a notary are determined by each state. Applying to become a notary typically consists of filling out an application, taking a brief exam and paying a fee for the notary stamp. Florida requires applicants to complete a three-hour course.
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Instructions
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Meet the legal requirements. You must be 18 years of age or older and a resident of Florida to become a Florida notary.
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Find a notary vendor. Use Florida Notary Education Providers website to locate a notary application provider that can provide all the services you need to complete your application. This includes your application, a notary bond, access to the three-hour training course and the creation of your notary stamp.
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Complete the three-hour training course. All new Florida notary applicants must have completed this training, either online or in a classroom. Take the type of training you want to attend into account when choosing your notary training company.
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Complete the application. You can do this online through the vendor of your choice.
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Pay the fees. Law requires the state fee of $39, the notary company sets other fees. Compare prices from several vendors to make sure you get the best deal.
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Wait for your stamp to arrive. The creation of the notary stamp, which is required to notarize documents and forms, can take several weeks. Once it is shipped to you with your notary logbook, you will be able to start taking on clients and performing notary services.
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Tips & Warnings
Notaries are not able to give legal advice or to prepare forms as a paralegal might.
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