Becoming a notary is generally inexpensive. Let’s take a quick look at how much it costs to become a notary in Florida. Then, we’ll dig a little deeper to find out what each fee covers and why it’s needed. Remember, these numbers may vary slightly depending on your situation, so always verify that the required fees are correct at each step.
Mandatory Start-Up Fees:
- Application- $39
- Surety Bond- $30-$40
- Notary Stamp:- $20
Optional Costs:
- Notary Course- Free from the state of Florida; additional courses offered by private companies may have fees.
- Notary Seal- $25
- Notary Bond Book- $22
- E&O Insurance- $29-$74
- Florida Notary+ Membership- $49
- RON- $99+
Recurring Fees (Every 4 Years):
- Filing Fee- $39
- Surety Bond- $30
- Notary Stamp- $20
Who Can Be a Notary in Florida?
In order to apply to be a notary in Florida, you need to be at least 18 years old and proficient in understanding and speaking English. If you have been convicted of a felony, you must have had a restoration of your civil rights to be eligible.
Application Fee
All Florida applicants must pay a $39 application fee when they submit their application.
How Long Does It Take to Become a Notary in Florida?
The application process to become a notary can be done in a day. The longest part of the notary application is the mandatory online training. All applicants seeking to become a notary in Florida must be approved by the state and take a notary course within one year of applying.
How Much Does the Notary Course Cost?
This course is free of charge thanks to the Department of State’s Notary Education Program. There are also private companies that offer their own notary courses for a fee.
By law, this training must take at least 3 hours. It is broken into segments so you can take it at different times that fit your schedule, or you can take it all in one day.
To pass the course, you must answer all of the questions at the end of each section. If you answer a question incorrectly, you can review the text that relates to the question and resubmit your answers one more time.
Additional Mandatory Costs to Get a Notary License
There are two main costs to becoming a notary. The first is the Florida state filing fee, which is the same $39 cost mentioned above. You will also need a notary surety bond.
Notary Bond Fee
One of the costs of becoming a notary includes a notary bond fee of approximately $30 for a $7,500, 4-year notary bond. This is required in the state of Florida and protects consumers from any harmful actions a notary might take.
Once you have submitted your application and paid all the necessary fees and completed the mandatory course, you must wait for approval. The process is straightforward, and you might have an answer from the state in 10 days or less when you apply with the Florida Notary Association. However, there are special circumstances that require a longer processing time, such as applicants with felony convictions.
If your application gets approved, you’ll need to gather the necessary materials to get legally up and running.
Notary Stamp
If the state approves your application, you’ll also need a notary stamp to fulfill your legal notary duties. A self-inking notary stamp will cost about $20, depending on the company you buy it from. You will need to buy a new one each time you renew your license.
If you want, you can also buy a notary seal. These are optional and used only for decorative purposes. If you choose to buy a notary seal, it will cost you about $25.
Understanding Optional Notary Costs
There are a few more fees you will need to consider when calculating how much it is to become a notary. While these aren’t required, some are highly recommended.
Notary Bond Book
While it’s not required by Florida law, it’s a good idea to invest in a bond book to keep track of documents and other items that you have notarized. This can help in legal situations where proof of documentation is required.
E&O Insurance
As part of your application, you have to prove that you have a $7,500 notary bond. This protects your customers, but there is nothing covering you. If you’re wondering whether or not you need insurance, the benefits of E&O insurance far outweigh the cost, not to mention the fees you would potentially have to pay out of pocket if you didn’t have it.
Errors and Omissions Insurance (E&O Insurance) protects you. For a premium as low as $29, you are covered for legal costs and any damages, up to the policy limit. This isn’t a requirement to become a notary public, but understanding that mistakes can happen, it’s better to be covered.
Mobile and Remote Online Notary (RON) Start-Up Costs
As a registered notary in the state of Florida, you can offer your services at a single location or provide mobile services. Consider the cost comparison of rent and office expenses, or if you take your business on the road, be sure to account for additional costs such as automobile expenses.
RON registration can expand your reach and availability. Once you are a commissioned Florida Notary, you may also consider the optional remote registration. The Florida Notary Association offers a package RON registration starting at $99.
Notary Memberships
A membership in organizations like the Florida Notary Association can help you stay informed and up to date on state law, as well as provide discounts and easy access to tools and renewal packages to help keep your business moving forward with ease. Our Notary+ Membership is only $49 for four years.
Bundled Service Packages
All the listed fees can be paid separately or as part of a package.
At the Florida Notary Association, we offer a package start-up service for as little as $119. This is a great way to make sure all your state requirements are met without any extra fuss or hidden fees.
You can also bundle your essential notary tools into an all-in-one kit to take advantage of product discounts.
The Florida Notary Association is Here to Help
We provide one-stop shopping for all your notary needs. Our notary packages provide you with everything you need at one low cost. If you need to restock your notary kits or are interested in notary accessories, be sure to check out The Dotted Line.
Whether you are renewing your notary commission or considering becoming one for the first time, we can help. Contact us today to find out how we can help you.