How to become a notary in Florida
Notaries in Florida are commissioned by the Governor of Florida (appointment); applications processed by the Florida Department of State, Notary Commissions and Certifications Section. Here is who can apply, what it takes and what it costs, from the state's own rules, checked November 4, 2026.
The state's website could not be fully reached when we checked, so some details come from Florida law and official forms. Confirm them on the official page before you apply.
Who can become a notary in Florida?
- At least 18 years old
- Legal resident of Florida, kept throughout the term
- U.S. citizen, or permanent resident alien who files a recorded Declaration of Domicile
- Able to read, write and understand English
- Felony convictions must be disclosed; civil rights restoration required if convicted
What are the Florida notary requirements?
| Commissioned by | Governor of Florida (appointment); applications processed by the Florida Department of State, Notary Commissions and Certifications Section |
|---|---|
| Training required | Yes. First-time applicants must complete a 3-hour notary education course and submit a signed certificate of completion (s. 668.50(11)(b), Fla. Stat., cited on the state application). Prior Florida notaries are not asked for it. |
| Exam required | No. No exam is listed in s. 117.01, Fla. Stat. or on the state application. |
| Surety bond | $7,500 |
| Application fee | $39 ($25 application fee + $10 commission fee + $4 surcharge, s. 117.01(2), Fla. Stat.) |
| Commission term | 4 years |
| Remote online notarization | Yes: a commissioned notary may register with the Department of State as an online notary after a classroom or online course, paying a registration fee and naming a RON service provider (ss. 117.201-117.295, Fla. Stat.). |
Steps to become a notary in Florida
- Complete the 3-hour notary education course (first-time applicants)
- Buy the $7,500 notary bond from a surety company / bonding agency
- Fill out the Department of State application, including a character affidavit from an unrelated person who has known you 1+ year and the oath of office
- Submit the application, bond and $39 in fees to the Department of State (you are subject to an FDLE background check)
- Receive your commission once the bond is approved and filed, then get your notary seal
How do you find a notary in Florida?
- Banks, credit unions, shipping stores and law offices often have a notary on staff. Call ahead, because not every branch does.
- A mobile notary travels to you for a travel fee on top of the state's notarization fee.
- Bring a current government photo ID and the unsigned document. Don't sign it until the notary watches you.
- A notary checks your identity and witnesses your signature. They can't give legal advice or tell you what a document means unless they are also a lawyer.
- Check that a notary is commissioned on the official Florida notary lookup.