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.

Want a complete, step-by-step guide to becoming a Florida notary and building your own business? Our INK Notary Course gives you all the templates, checklists, and insider tips you need to succeed. Enroll now → INK Notary Course 

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.

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

  
  

Want to Level Up?

At INK Notary Services, we do more than notarize documents — we offer paths to earn, learn, and grow in the notary profession:

✅ INK Notary Course - Learn how to build a profitable, flexible notary business.

✅ INK Witness Network - Get paid to assist at signings, no experience/diploma/Notary Certification required.

✅Careers for Teens 18+ - Start earning right away by witnessing documents, no experience/diploma/Notary Certification required.

✅EIN Fast Track - walks you step-by-step through getting your Employer Identification Number (EIN) directly from the IRS

✅Business Formation Fast Track - gives you everything you need to make your business official - fast, smart, and stress-free.

✅Grants / Funding Vault - A curated set of active grants for women, minorities, and small business owners — with direct links to apply.

✅20 Signing Agencies List - A curated list (with company names, phone numbers, and emails) so you can contact them to get hired for: ​Loan signings, General notary work, and Mobile notary appointments.

Disclaimer: Ink Notary Services LLC is a private business offering support services and is not affiliated with the Florida Department of State. We provide guidance based on publicly available resources and our industry experience. For official requirements, visit https://notaries.dos.state.fl.us.