Notaries play a vital role in ensuring the authenticity and legality of documents. They act as impartial witnesses, verifying signatures and deterring fraud. However, the responsibilities and regulations governing Notaries can vary significantly from state to state. In the Sunshine State, Florida, notaries must adhere to specific laws and guidelines to perform their duties correctly.

Key Requirements for Florida Notaries

1. Appointment: Notaries in Florida are appointed and commissioned by the Governor to serve a four-year term.
2. Age and Residency: To become a notary in Florida, you must be at least 18 years old and a legal resident of the state.
3. Training: Florida law requires new notaries to complete a state-approved notary education program before applying for their commission.
4. Bonding: Notaries must also obtain a $7,500 surety bond as part of the application process.
5. Official Seal: Florida notaries are required to use an official seal that includes their name, commission number, and the words “Notary Public – State of Florida.”
6. Record-Keeping: Notaries must maintain a journal to record all notarial acts. This journal is an essential part of the notary’s responsibilities.
7. Identification: Proper identification of signers is crucial. Florida law specifies the types of identification that can be accepted.
8. Fees: Notaries in Florida can charge fees for their services, but these fees are capped by law.

Important Notary Acts in Florida

Florida notaries are authorized to perform several essential notarial acts, including:

• Acknowledgments: Confirming that a signer has acknowledged their signature on a document voluntarily.
• Jurats: Administering oaths or affirmations to signers who must swear to the truthfulness of the contents of a document.
• Oaths and Affirmations: Administering oaths or affirmations to witnesses or individuals providing statements.
• Copy Certifications: Certifying that a copy of an original document is accurate and complete.
• Protests: Handling the protest of negotiable instruments such as checks and promissory notes.

Download or Check Florida Notary Laws

For a comprehensive understanding of the Notary Laws in Florida, including detailed requirements and regulations, we invite you to download and review the official Florida Notary Laws.

If you’re a Florida notary or planning to become one, staying informed about these laws is crucial to performing your notarial duties with integrity and in compliance with state regulations.

The post State Notary Laws – Florida first appeared on Notarizr by The Opal Group.

The post State Notary Laws – Florida appeared first on Notarizr by The Opal Group.