How to Become a Notary Public in the State of Florida

This page breaks down the entire notary application process into five easy steps. While we've provided you with all of the detailed information we can, you should know that you cannot complete most of these steps yourself.

Unlike some states, becoming a notary in Florida is a rather hands-off process. The state does not provide applications directly. Instead, you must apply using an approved bonding agency.

That's where we come in.

Our all-in-one Florida Notary Package includes everything you need to start notarizing for one low price. It takes care of almost every step described on this page. Keep reading to learn how to use our comprehensive application package to start your notary journey!

1) Meet the State Requirements

Before you get started, make sure you meet the following qualifications.

According to the Florida notary handbook, applicants must:

  • Be at least 18 years old
  • Be a legal Florida resident
  • Be able to read, write and understand English
  • Have not been convicted of a felony, including those not on your public record

If you have been convicted of a felony, are on probation or had adjudication withheld, you must submit the following documents:

  1. A written statement regarding the nature and circumstances of the charges
  2. A copy of the Judgment and Sentencing Order
  3. If convicted, a copy of the official document that declares your pardon (sometimes called a Certification of Restoration of Civil Rights)

To learn more about restoring your civil rights, contact the Office of Executive Clemency at 1-800-488-0695.

2) Get a Surety Bond

All notaries must possess a $7,500 surety bond to protect the public from notarization mistakes. The state does not provide these bonds; you must get one from an approved bonding agency like Notaries.com.

Along with the required bond, our comprehensive notary package includes these other necessities:

  • A notary application
  • A customized self-inking stamp with a state-approved notary seal
  • Access to the required three-hour education course
  • A frameable notary certificate

Since the surety bond doesn't protect you from professional liability, consider getting errors and omissions (E&O) insurance.

An E&O policy is a form of liability insurance that protects notaries from financial loss if they commit a negligent act while performing notarial duties. Don't get caught paying for legal defense fees or repaying a bond claim; protect yourself for as little as $40! Learn more about our E&O policy options here.

3) Complete the Mandatory Training Course

If you're a first-time applicant, you must take a three-hour educational course within one year of submitting your application.

State-approved course curriculums must cover topics like Florida notary laws, notarial acts, general duties, liability and recordkeeping and electronic notarization. The training course does not have an exam, and you will receive a certificate of completion after completing it.

Our complete commission package includes access to a state-approved online course. Complete it from home at your own pace to prepare for success during your commission.

4) Complete Your Application from a Bonding Agency

Florida has not let anyone submit their own applications since 1996. That's why choosing a trusted bonding agency is so important. They are the ones who send you a copy of the application along with your bond.

The application includes the following sections that you'll need to fill out:

  • Personal Information: Make sure your name on the application matches the name you want to use during your commission.
  • Affidavit of Good Character: Must be completed by a nonrelative who has known you for a year or more.
  • Oath of Office: The signature you use for this oath will be the official one used for your file.

After filling out and signing the application and bond included in our notary package, please send both documents back to us. Note that application notarization is no longer required.

You can mail your documents to the following address:

Notaries.com
225 E Robinson St #570
Orlando, FL 32801

After we receive your completed documents, we will electronically submit your application, bond and education completion certificate to the state.

5) Get Your Supplies

After the state approves your application, we will get your State Commission Number and expiration date. With this information, we will manufacture your state-compliant stamp.

It will include the title Notary Public State of Florida, your name, your commission number and its expiration date.

We will ship your stamp, along with your bond and frameable certification certificate, via first-class mail.

Check out our supplies page for more commission essentials. There, you'll find other helpful things like an embosser, oath stamp or marriage kit.

Get Your Notary Commission Today!

Notaries are public officers who are appointed and commissioned by the Governor. The state handbook states that appointment is a privilege, not a right.

Becoming a notary is about more than gaining a title. A commission opens doors to a rewarding opportunity to support your community and enhance your professional skill set.

If you are ready to take on this important role, our easy-to-use website and comprehensive online package can help streamline the application process, from submitting the necessary forms to making your stamp.

Additionally, if you are interested in becoming a remote online notary or a signing agent in Florida, we can also guide you through those application steps!