How to become a remote online notary in Florida: A Comprehensive Guide

General

Posted on December 10, 2024
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Overview of Remote Online Notary Public (RON)
As of January 1, 2020, Florida notaries have been authorized to perform remote online notarizations under the “Electronic Legal Documents” law (Chapter 2019-71, Laws of Florida). This legislation, signed on June 7, 2019, is supplemented by the Florida Administrative Code (1N-7001), which defines the responsibilities and application process for online notaries. Follow these steps to register as a Remote Online Notary in Florida.

Eligibility Requirements

  1. Active Notary Status
    You must already be a commissioned notary public, a civil-law notary under Chapter 118, or a commissioner of deeds under Chapter 721.
    Tip: If you’re unsure of your current status, check the Florida Department of State’s online database.
  2. Training Completion
    Complete an approved online education course and obtain a certificate of completion. This certificate is a necessary attachment to your registration application.

Application Process

  1. Fill Out the Application
    Submit the completed “Application for Registration as an Online Notary Public,” available on the Florida Department of State’s website.
    Submission Address:
    • Mail: Florida Department of State, Division of Corporations, P.O. Box 6327, Tallahassee, FL 32314
    • In-Person/Courier: 2415 North Monroe St., Suite 810, Tallahassee, FL 32303
    Fee: $10 payable to the Florida Department of State by check.
  2. Include Required Forms
    Attach the “Online Notary Public Information Form” to your application. Applications missing this form cannot be processed.

Vendor Requirements

Before applying, you must secure a contract with a third-party vendor that provides:

  • Technology for attaching electronic notarial certificates, signatures, and seals to documents.
  • Tools for identity verification and credential analysis.
  • Secure storage for video and audio recordings of notarization sessions.

ProNotary is proud to be a partner with Florida as an approved platform.

The Florida Department of State does not endorse specific vendors but outlines the technology requirements under Chapter 117, Florida Statutes, and Chapter 1N-7001, Florida Administrative Code.

Key Regulations to Review

Familiarize yourself with the applicable rules and statutes, including:

  • Chapter 2019-71 (Electronic Legal Documents): Governs the enactment of online notarizations.
  • Florida Administrative Code 1N-7001: Details the duties, responsibilities, and procedures for remote notaries.

Expiration and Renewal

Your Remote Online Notary registration will expire on the same date as your current notary public commission. If you renew your notary commission, you may reapply to continue as a Remote Online Notary.

https://dos.fl.gov/sunbiz/other-services/notaries/remote-online-notary-public