Florida
Notary Public Underwriters - Florida
IMPORTANT: The RON registration will run concurrently with the term you are applying for.
If you are currently commissioned and do not need to renew at this time, please visit our Notary Forms page to download the RON Order Form Only.
If you have taken notary training through another provider, you will have the option to delete the course fee(s) from your order upon checkout.
*Prices do NOT include tax, shipping, and handling
BEFORE YOU APPLY
You must meet the State of Florida's requirements in order to become a remote online notary, including:
• Be an actively commissioned notary.
- Our online process will help you become a notary or renew your commission and register as a remote online notary.
• Review statutes and rules related to notaries public and remote online notaries public.
• Complete a 2 hour state-approved course covering the duties, obligations and technology requirements for serving as a remote online notary.
- First-time applicants are also required to take a 3 hour state-approved traditional notary course.
• Obtain a $25,000 notary bond.
• Obtain a notary errors & omissions policy in the minimum amount of $25,000.
• Select a RON service technology provider that is compliant with Florida law.
- Notary Public Underwriters does not recommend nor endorse any RON service technology provider.
• Submit the completed registration form along with payment of $10 by check payable to the Florida Department of State. You must include proof of your bond and insurance policy, a copy of your appointment as a notary public. The registration form will need to be notarized by another notary.
- The registration fee is not included in the state filing fees.
STEPS TO APPLY FOR YOUR NOTARY COMMISSION AND REGISTER AS A REMOTE ONLINE NOTARY IN FLORIDA
If you are needing to become a notary or renew your current commission and would like to register as a remote online notary for the term you're applying for, you've come to the right place! If you have any questions, don't hesitate to contact our Customer Care team team by This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or phone 800.821.0821, we are happy to help!
Select your notary package, complete the interactive application process, select any additional products you desire and submit your payment online. Your notary forms and instructions will be available for download at the end of checkout.
Payment by check not available online. If you prefer to pay by check or money order, click here to download the notary forms.
Complete the required Florida RON Certification Course. First-time applicants are also required to complete an additional course that covers the duties of a traditional notary public.
Print, sign, and send your completed notary forms to Notary Public Underwriters! We will file the paperwork for your traditional commission with the State.
Once your notary commission has been processed, you will receive an email with the steps for completing the RON registration with the state directly. We will mail your customized stamp and other supplies within 3 business days after we receive notification of commission from the state. All Notary Public Underwriters stamps and seals come with a Lifetime Guarantee.
IMPORTANT
Our online process is intended for new and renewing applicants. If you are currently commissioned and do not need to renew at this time, download the RON Order Form Only, below. Mail, email or fax your completed order form and payment to our office for processing. Your remote notary bond and E&O policy will be emailed to you within one business day, along with instructions for completing the registration process with the Secretary of State. If you are purchasing a replacement commission certificate, it will be mailed to you within one business day upon receipt from the State.
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What Are the Requirements to Become a Notary in Florida?
Eligibility
To become a notary in Florida, you must meet the following requirements:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Be a legal resident of Florida
- Be able to read, write, and understand English
If you are not a U.S. citizen, you must provide a recorded Declaration of Domicile, which can be obtained from your local County Clerk's office.
If you have had any professional licenses revoked, been disciplined by a regulatory agency, have been convicted of a felony, or had an adjudication of guilt withheld for a felony offense, you must submit additional documents as outlined on the application for review by the Governor's office. The time frame for approval from the Governor's office varies as reviews are performed on an individual basis.
Training
Florida law requires first-time notary applicants to complete at least three hours of Florida notary public education. To satisfy this requirement, Notary Public Underwriters offers a state-approved Florida notary online education course, and it is included in all of our packages to become a notary. In taking our course, you will gain a full understanding of a notary’s responsibility in society and the obligation to execute the duties lawfully and ethically. The Florida Notary Course will help you become familiar with the most current notary laws in Florida as well as completely understand your notarial duties.
Ready to Become a Notary?
GET STARTED
How to Apply to Become a Notary in Florida
If you meet the requirements to become a notary and have read the notary public laws, follow the steps below to apply for your notary commission:
Step 1: Order Your Notary Bond, Education & Supplies, and Complete the Notary Application
When you visit our Become a Notary page, select one of our notary package to begin the process. You will notice that all of our package includes the notary bond, state filing fees, education course, and a notary stamp. All of these items are necessary in order to become a notary and carry out your duties.
Next, complete the application. Don't worry; our online application process guides you through all of the application questions and help you avoid any errors. The person you enter on the Affidavit of Character section must have known you for at least a year and be available to sign that section when you print your documents. You must read the Oath of Office and enter your name as you would like it to appear on your commission.
After completing the application fields, you will be directed to customize your notary package. You will be able to confirm the case color of the notary stamp that is in your package, and add any additional supplies you desire.
Although not required by law, it's a good idea to invest in a record book and notary E&O insurance. Too many notaries confuse an E&O policy with the notary bond, yet they are entirely different products. As mentioned above, the notary bond is designed to protect the public. If a claim is made against your bond, you are required to pay it back. Notary E&O insurance is designed to shield the notary from financial liability in the case of any unintentional mistakes or oversights up to the policy limit. There is no deductible and you are not required to pay it back. Without this policy, you would be responsible for all fees or expenses related to defending yourself as a notary.
The Notary Public Record Book is an important tool that provides a written record of your official acts as a notary. It can help you recall a specific notarization should it come into question later. This can be helpful in the event you are faced with a claim for performing a notarial act improperly.
At the end of checkout, your notary application and bond will be available for download. You will need it for the next step.
Step 2: Submit Your Paperwork
If you used our online application process, you should have already downloaded the application and bond. If not, you may log in to your account and download the documents from "Notary Application" tab. These documents will include instructions on where to sign, a reminder to have the Affidavit of Character portion completed, and a request for any supporting documentation to assist the Governor's Notary Section in determining your eligibility if you have had any professional licenses revoked, have been disciplined by a regulatory agency, have been convicted of a felony, or have had an adjudication of guilt withheld for a felony offense. Don't forget to complete your notary training and include a signed copy of your completion certificate with your paperwork.
Mail your paperwork to:
Notary Public Underwriters
P.O. Box 5378
Tallahassee, FL 32314
For expedited processing, contact our Customer Care team for options.
Once we receive your paperwork, we will review it for accuracy and file it with the state upon determining it will be accepted.
Step 3: Receive Your Supplies
Upon approval from the state, we will manufacture your notary supplies and ship them within three business days. Please be aware that your notary certificate and supplies will be delivered separately. Once received, you may begin performing your duties as a notary!
If you have questions, please contact us at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or 800.821.0821. We are always happy to assist.
How Much Does It Cost to Become a Notary in Florida?
Becoming a notary in Florida is affordable. The state filing fee is $39, our 4-year $7,500 notary bond is $40, and our notary course is $25. You will also need to purchase a notary stamp so that you can carry out your duties. These vary in price depending on the style you like. We have created a breakdown of our most popular package for becoming a notary:
| Item | Cost |
| $7,500 Notary Bond | $40 |
| State Filing Fee | $39 |
| Notary Education Course | $25 |
| Rectangular Notary Stamp | $24 |
| Notary Public Record Book | $10 |
| $25,000 Notary E&O Insurance | $60 |
| Shipping & Handling | $9.95 |
| Sales Tax | $2.55 |
| Total Cost | $210.50 |
Florida Notary Public FAQs
What Is a Notary Bond?
All Florida applicants must obtain a $7,500 surety bond, also known as a notary bond, from an approved bonding agency such as Notary Public Underwriters. This bond is intended to protect the public from financial loss caused by notarial misconduct.
How Do I Obtain a Notary Bond in Florida?
Visit our Become a Notary page where you will be able to purchase the notary bond and other state-required items.
Not a new applicant? Visit our Renew Commission page!
Can I Become a Notary in Florida if I Live in Another State but Work in Florida?
No, you must be a legal resident of Florida to be eligible for a Florida notary commission.
How Long Does It Take to Become a Notary in Florida?
The entire process, from when we receive your complete Florida paperwork to when your notary supplies are mailed, typically takes about 5-7 business days.
For special circumstances, such as revoked professional license, disciplinary actions, or felony convictions, your application must go to the Governor's Office for approval. This process can take a minimum of 8 weeks. However, if your application does not have the proper documentation, it may result in additional delays.
What Should I Do if I Move or My Name Changes as a Florida Notary?
If your legal name changes, Florida law requires you to obtain an amended notary commission within 60 days. If Notary Public Underwriters is your bonding agency, visit our Notary Forms page to download the name change packet. Complete the paperwork and submit it to our office with payment. We will file the request with the Department of State and will ship your order and certificate within three business days after receiving notification of your amended commission. Until you receive your amended commission, you may continue notarizing documents under your old name for 60 days or until you receive your new stamp, whichever comes first.
If you move, you must notify the Florida Department of State in writing within 60 days of any changes to your residence or business address, home or business telephone number, or criminal record. You can download and complete the Address Change Form and email it to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. to notify us of the change, and we will file it with the State of Florida.
How Long Does a Florida Notary Commission Last?
A Florida notary commission is valid for four years. To maintain your status as a notary, you will need to renew your commission before it expires.
How Do I Renew My Notary Commission in Florida?
To renew your notary commission in Florida, you must meet the same eligibility requirements, obtain a new notary bond and supplies, and reapply. However, unlike first-time applicants, you are not required to complete an educational course if you are renewing your commission. To avoid any potential delays, it's recommended to begin the renewal process at least 4 months before your current commission expires.
Remote Online Notary
Want to perform remote online notarizations?
If you would like to register as a remote online notary, simply download the appropriate forms below.
Mid-Commission notaries - If you are currently commissioned as a notary and would like to register as a remote online notary, download the RON Order form only, below. Mail, email or fax your completed order form and payment to our office for processing. Your remote notary bond and E&O policy will be emailed to you within one business day, along with instructions for completing the registration process with the Secretary of State. If you are purchasing a replacement commission certificate, it will be mailed you within one business day upon receipt from the State.
RON ORDER FORM ONLY - FOR MID-COMMISSION NOTARIES
New and Renewing notaries - If you are wanting to register as a remote online notary and apply for, or renew your commission all at once, download the forms RON Packet for NEW and RENEWING notaries, below. Complete and mail your application, order form and payment to our office for processing. Once the state approves your notary commission, we will email you the remote notary bond, E&O policy and instructions for completing the registration process with the Secretary of State.
RON PACKET FOR NEW AND RENEWING NOTARIES
Information Regarding Remote Online Notary
Beginning January 1, 2020 Florida notaries may register to perform remote online notarizations (RONs). At Notary Public Underwriters, we’re here to provide you with information regarding remote online notaries. Here are the answers to the most common questions.
What is a remote online notary?
A remote online notary is a commissioned notary public who is also authorized to perform notarizations online using audio-video technology standards that meets the requirements set forth in Chapter 117, Florida Statutes, and Chapter 1N-7.001, Florida Administrative Code.
How can I become a remote online notary?
If you would like to register as a remote online notary, here are the steps you will need to take:
- Review statutes and rules related to notaries public and remote online notaries public.
- Complete a 2 hour state approved course covering the duties, obligations and technology requirements for serving as a remote online notary.
- Obtain a $25,000 notary bond.
- Obtain a notary errors & omissions insurance policy in the minimum amount of $25,000. We offer $25,000 to $100,000 in coverage for just pennies a day.
- Select a RON service technology provider that is compliant with Florida law.
- Complete the registration form, DOC 1N-7. The registration form will need to be notarized by another notary.
- Submit the completed registration form along with payment of $10 by check payable to the Florida Department of State. You must include proof of your bond and insurance policy, a copy of your appointment as a notary public and evidence of completing a course for remote online notaries.
Is remote notarization the same as electronic notarization?
Many believe they are the same, but they are not. While electronic notarizations involve documents signed and notarized in an electronic format, all other elements of a traditional notarization apply, including the signer physically appearing before the notary. With remote notarizations, the transaction is performed online through means of audio-video technology rather than in person.
What kind of technology will I need to perform remote notarizations?
You will need to partner with a remote online notarization service provider whose technology complies with standards and requirements pursuant to Chapter 117, Florida Statutes, and Chapter 1N-7.001, Florida Administrative Code. Companies such as DocVerify, Notarize and Pavaso offer various services, which may include:
- Facilitating video conferencing for online notarizations
- Verifying the identity of signers and witnesses
- Attaching the notary's electronic signature and seal to digital documents
- Storing electronic journal entries and video footage of online notarizations
- Processing payments from the notary's clients
We suggest you review several RON service providers to determine which one best serve your needs.
Can I use Skype or FaceTime to perform notarizations?
No. Contrary to popular belief, apps such as FaceTime, Skype and Google Duo do not meet the statutory requirements for a RON service provider.
Where can I take the course?
You may take the course on our website.
Order the Florida Remote Online Notary Course
May I use my current Errors & Omissions Insurance Policy as a remote notary?
If you purchased your Errors & Omissions policy from us and it is in the minimum amount of $25,000, you may use it as proof of coverage to become a remote online notary. If you purchased your policy with another company, you will need to contact them to confirm if your policy is valid for RON.
May I use my current bond to become a remote online notary?
No. Your current notary bond is in the amount of $7,500. You will need to purchase a $25,000 notary bond.
How long is the remote online notary registration valid?
The registration will run concurrently with your existing notary public commission and will expire on the same day, regardless of when the online notary registration was filed.
How long is the $25,000 notary bond in effect?
The notary bond will run concurrently with your existing notary public commission and will expire on the same day, regardless of when the online notary registration was filed. You will need to purchase another $25,000 bond upon renewal if you would like to continue being a remote online notary.
Where can I obtain the application to register as a remote online notary?
You may download the application here.
How can I obtain a $25,000 notary bond and the notary insurance policy?
We're glad you asked! You may purchase your notary bond and Errors & Omissions policy from us today! Your notary bond and E&O policy will be emailed to you within one business day along with instructions for completing the registration process at the State.
If you have additional questions regarding remote online notaries, contact our Customer Care team at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or (800) 821.0821. We are always happy and willing to help Florida notaries.
Florida Signing Agent Errors & Omissions Insurance can now be purchased from Notary Public Underwriters. It fills the gaps left with a traditional notary E&O policy, which only provides coverage for the actual notarizations in a loan package.
Purchase Florida Signing Agent Errors & Omissions Insurance Online
Download Florida Notary Signing Agent Errors & Omissions Insurance Order Form
This policy provides coverage for actions such as:
- Innocent errors or omissions related to signing agent specific notarial acts
- Incorrectly dating the Right of Rescission
- Missed initials or non-notarized signatures
- Improper corrections made to documents
- Failure to complete the signing on time due to the sole negligence of the signing agent
- Late return of date-sensitive documents