How to Become a Notary in Florida

A notary public in Florida serves as an impartial witness to the signing of important documents, preventing fraud, and ensuring the legality of transactions. Notaries in Florida are commissioned by the Florida Department of State, Division of Corporations. The state also allows Remote Online Notarization (RON), making Florida a prime location for notaries who want to offer digital services and expand their client base.

Why Become a Notary in Florida?

Becoming a notary public in Florida offers numerous benefits:

✔️ Earn extra income on a flexible schedule

✔️ Offer in-demand services to individuals and businesses

✔️ Expand your professional skillset

✔️ Enhance your career or business credibility

Whether you're seeking a side hustle, a full-time career, or want to integrate notary services into your existing business, Florida offers great opportunities to grow your income.

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify as a notary public in Florida, you must:

• Be at least 18 years old

• Be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident

• Be a resident of Florida

• Have no felony convictions unless civil rights have been restored

  
  

Step-by-Step Process to Become a Notary in Florida

1. Complete a State-Approved Notary Education Course

   • Florida requires new applicants to complete a three-hour notary training course.

   • The course is available online through the Florida Department of State or other approved providers.

2. Submit a Notary Application

   • Apply through a Florida notary bonding agency (private companies that process applications on behalf of the state).

3. Obtain a Surety Bond and Errors & Omissions (E&O) Insurance

   • Florida requires a $7,500 surety bond.

   • Errors & Omissions (E&O) insurance is optional but recommended.

4. Pay the Application Fee

   • The application fee is $39 (may vary depending on the bonding agency).

5. Receive Your Notary Commission Certificate

   • Once approved, you will receive your notary commission certificate from the Florida Department of State.

6. Purchase Notary Supplies

   • Required supplies include a notary seal/stamp and a notary journal.

7. Register for Remote Online Notarization (Optional)

   • Florida allows Remote Online Notarization (RON).

   • If you want to offer RON services, you must register with the Florida Department of State and work with an approved RON service provider.

     
     

Fees for Becoming a Notary in Florida

Total estimated cost: $130–$320

Other Potential Startup Costs

✔️ Errors & Omissions (E&O) Insurance – Protects against liability claims. Cost: $100–$300 per year.

✔️ Business Registration Fees – If registering a business, costs may range from $50–$200 (depending on the business structure and location).

✔️ Website & Marketing Costs – Setting up an online presence may cost $100–$500 for a basic website, plus additional costs for online marketing (ads, social media, etc.).

Renewal Process

Florida notary commissions are valid for four years. To renew:

✔️ Submit a renewal application through the Florida Department of State

✔️ Pay the renewal fee ($39).

How Much Can a Notary Charge in Florida?

• Traditional notarization: Maximum fee is $10 per signature.

• Remote Online Notarization (RON): Maximum fee is $25 per online notarization.

Other Ways to Increase Your Earnings as a Notary

While Florida sets a maximum fee for notarizations, notaries can increase their earnings by offering additional services such as:

✔️ Travel fees – Charging for mobile notary services

✔️ Printing & document preparation – Helping clients with paperwork

✔️ Shipping & mailing services – Handling notarized documents

✔️ After-hours & emergency services – Offering services outside normal business hours

These additional services can help increase your income to $25–$50+ per client.

Resources for Florida Notaries

• For official state information, visit the Florida Department of State – Notary Section: https://dos.myflorida.com/sunbiz/

  
  

Start and Grow Your Notary Business

Florida is one of the best states to be a notary public, especially with Remote Online Notarization (RON) options.

Join The Notary Business Blueprint®, the leading mentorship program designed to help notaries launch, grow, and scale their business successfully.

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