How to become a Notary Public in Florida - Step-by-Step Guide

If you're looking to become a notary public in Florida, you're in the right place! Whether you’re starting a new career or adding notarial services to your existing business, Florida makes it simple with a clear set of steps to follow. This guide breaks it all down so you can get started with confidence — from education and bonding to getting your notary seal.

Basic Requirements to Become a Florida Notary

Before applying, make sure you meet the following eligibility criteria:

✔️ Be at least 18 years old

✔️ Be a legal resident of Florida

✔️ Be able to read, write, and understand English

✔️ Have no felony convictions, or have your civil rights restored

These are the foundation for becoming a commissioned notary public in Florida.

Step 1: Complete a State-Approved Notary Education Course

All new notary applicants must complete a state-approved 3-hour notary course. The course covers your legal responsibilities, how to properly notarize documents, and common notary scenarios.

🔖 TIP: Keep your certificate of completion handy - it must be submitted with your application.

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Step 2: Purchase a $7,500 Surety Bond

Florida law requires notaries to obtain a $7,500 surety bond. This bond protects the public from financial loss due to any errors or misconduct during notarial duties.

🛡️ Note: This is not insurance for the notary — it protects the public. You can also choose to purchase Errors & Omissions (E&O) Insurance for extra peace of mind.

Step 3: Complete and Submit Your Notary Application

Here’s what you’ll need:

🔹 A completed notary application form

🔹 Proof of course completion

🔹 Surety bond information

🔹 A small fee (typically $39)

🔹 Valid identification and any supporting documentation

You can get the application through a Florida-approved bonding agency or directly from the Florida Department of State website.

Step 4: Order Your Official Notary Seal

Once approved, you’ll need a notary seal (also called a stamp) to perform notarizations. It must include:

🖋️ Your full legal name

🔢 Your commission number

📍 The words “State of Florida”

Your seal is essential for performing legal notarial acts.

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Additional Considerations for Florida Notaries

✔️ Background Checks

Some bonding agencies or applications may require a background check, especially if there are any past legal concerns.

🔁 Renewing Your Commission

A Florida notary commission is valid for four years. Mark your calendar and renew on time to avoid gaps in service.

🌐 Becoming an Online Notary in Florida

Want to notarize documents remotely? Florida allows Remote Online Notarization (RON), but you'll need to:

• Take a separate RON training course

• Meet additional tech and security requirements

• Register as an online notary through the state

How else INK Empowers You

🚀 With the Notary Public Success System and the INK Networks, you can own your time, own your income, and be your own boss. At INK Notary Services, we do more than notarize documents - we offer paths to earn, learn, and grow in the notary profession:

Want to Level Up?

🌐 INK Witness Network  - Get paid $25-$40 per signing appointment to witness signatures. No experience/notary certificate required.

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💼 INK Courses & Resources Explore more ways to grow

✅Need documents notarized for a real estate transaction or any official matter? Our notary services are reliable, fast, and mobile!

📞 Call us at (786) 396-3018

📧 Email: info@myinknotary.com

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Disclaimer: INK Notary Services, LLC is a private business providing support services and is not an attorney, does not provide legal services, and is not affiliated with the Florida Department of State. This material is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, tax, or accounting advice. INK Notary Services, LLC is not liable for your use of this content. Always consult a licensed attorney, accountant, or tax professional for official guidance. State-specific requirements may vary, so verify all rules with your local authorities, including your state’s notary division, before performing services.

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