How to Become a Notary in Florida
Florida notary commissions are issued by the Office of the Governor (appoints) / Florida Department of State (issues). No exam is required. Total cost: $89 - $100. Commission lasts 4 years.
Steps to Become a Notary in Florida
Complete a 3-hour education course
Take an approved notary education course. The Florida Department of State offers a free online course, or you can take a private course.
Submit your application
Apply through an approved bonding/notary processing agency. Pay the $39 application fee. The application goes to the Governor's office.
Purchase a $7,500 surety bond
Buy a surety bond from a licensed bonding agency. Cost is typically $30-$40 for the 4-year term.
Receive your commission certificate
The Governor's office processes applications within 4-6 weeks. Your commission certificate arrives by mail.
Order your notary stamp
Purchase an official ink stamp notary seal from a notary supply company.
File your oath of office
Take your oath of office and file it with the county clerk in the county where you reside within 60 days.
Florida Notary Requirements
Age & Residency
Minimum age: 18. Must be a legal resident of Florida. Permanent resident aliens eligible if Declaration of Domicile is filed.
Education
3-hour approved notary education course. Free online through the FL Department of State Notary Education Program. Private courses also available.
Exam
Florida does not require a notary exam. A 3-hour education course is required instead for first-time applicants.
Background Check
Florida does not require a formal background check. However, applicants must disclose felony convictions on the application. Felony conviction requires civil rights restoration.
Surety Bond
$7,500 bond required. Annual cost: $30 - $40 per year.
Application Fee
$39 filing fee with the Office of the Governor (appoints) / Florida Department of State (issues).
Equipment You Need
Notary Seal
Ink stamp required. Must include notary name, "Notary Public - State of Florida," commission number, and commission expiration date.
Required: YesNotary Journal
A journal is not required for traditional in-person notarizations in Florida. However, RON notaries must maintain an electronic journal of all remote notarial acts.
Required: NoWhat Florida Notaries Can and Cannot Do
Can Notarize
Cannot Notarize
Remote Online Notarization in Florida
Florida is one of the most RON-friendly states. Separate RON registration required ($10 fee to FL DOS). Must contract with approved third-party vendor. RON notaries need a $25,000 bond and minimum $25,000 E&O insurance policy.
Learn more about RONHow to Renew Your Florida Notary Commission
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to become a notary in Florida?
The process typically takes 4-8 weeks. The education course takes about 3 hours online, and after submitting your application, you wait 4-6 weeks for your commission from the Governor's office.
How much does it cost to become a notary in Florida?
Total cost is approximately $89-$100, which includes the application fee ($39), surety bond ($30-$40), stamp ($20), and education course (free through state). Florida is one of the most affordable states.
Can Florida notaries perform weddings?
Yes. Florida is one of the few states where notaries public can solemnize marriages. The fee is the same as a circuit court clerk ($30), though many charge more for ceremony services.
Can I perform remote online notarizations in Florida?
Yes. Florida is one of the most RON-friendly states. You must register separately with the Department of State ($10 fee), obtain a $25,000 bond, carry E&O insurance, and contract with an approved RON platform.
More Florida Notary Guides
Become a Notary in Other States
Already a Notary in Florida?
Get listed on NotaryScout and start receiving client inquiries.
List Your Business FreeRelated Guides & Resources
Are you a notary in Florida?
Get found by people searching in your area. Claim your free listing, then upgrade for priority placement and lead tracking.
Free forever. Premium from $9/mo (founder pricing).