How to Become a Notary in Florida
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.