How To Renew Your Commission
Notaries in FL need to update their commission every four years. Take these steps to continue notarizing:
1. Submit your application
For a renewal to get approved, it needs to include both the $7,500 bond and a completed application. You can start the process for both here.
The application requires the following information:
- Your full name, date of birth, Social Security number, and citizenship status
- A Home and/or business address and phone number
- Driver's license number or the number from your other state-issued identification
- An affidavit of good character from someone who has known you for at least a year and isn't related to you
- A list of all the professional licenses and commissions the state has issued you during the last decade
- A statement as to whether you've had one of those licenses or commissions revoked or suspended
- A statement as to whether you've been convicted of a felony, and, if so, additional details like the nature of the conviction and a copy of the Judgement and Sentencing Order
2. Get your bond
You need another $7,500 four-year surety bond for your new commission. This is the same bond you needed to initially get appointed.
As a reminder, this bond doesn't protect you. It's designed to pay any individual who is financially harmed by a mistake you might make as a notary.
For the Department of State to accept your bond, it needs to come from a surety company that's been authorized to conduct business in the state, like Notaries.com.
3. Get your notary supplies
All notaries need these two things (and one we highly recommend):
An official seal
All official notary seals must be rubber stamps with black ink. This seal needs to include your name, the date it expires (at the end of the four-year term), the commission number, and the words "Notary Public — State of Florida."
When you complete your application with us, we send it to the state and wait for approval. Once you're approved, we create this official seal and stamp for you and send it to you. You can pick the exterior color of the stamp.
An updated Notary Commission Certificate
You can get a new certificate for each four-year term. Once your notary appointment renewal is approved, we'll send you one suitable for framing.
Personal insurance coverage
While your bond protects other people, you need errors & omissions (E&O) insurance to protect yourself. Get an affordable policy with a four-year term that matches your new notary appointment.
Beyond these three items, you may also want to gather other supplies, like a journal and a dictionary of legal terms.
Frequently Asked Questions
How early can I start?
The application window opens six months before your current appointment expires.
How much does it cost?
The filing fee is $39, although if you're a veteran with a disability, that cost may be waived.
Additional costs include your required bond and the creation of your new official seal. Good news: we bundle all of these into one affordable price with our all-in-one renewal package.
What should I do with my supplies after my commission expires?
Stop using your notary seal and destroy or deface it to prevent any potential misuse. If you're renewing, replace it with your new seal once it's issued.
Any notary journals or records should be securely stored, even if you are no longer actively serving as a notary.
Can I continue working after my commission expires?
No. You are not legally allowed to perform any notarial acts until you are recommissioned. Doing so can result in fines or legal action.
