Florida Notary Public Updates

Congratulations on becoming a notary! You’ve likely received your notary stamp, record book (journal), and other necessary supplies. Now, here’s what you need to do next:

Secure Your Proof of Commission

First, store your original notary commission certificate securely. No one else should have access to this document. This will prevent it from being lost, misplaced, or misused.

Find Authoritative Resources

Identify reliable sources for ongoing training, technical support, and updates on Florida notary laws. Troy Fain Insurance and the Florida Department of State's website are good places to start. Resources like the American Society of Notaries or the Florida Notary Handbook can be very helpful.

Follow Step-by-Step

Procedures Refer to step-by-step procedures for notarizing signatures, administering oaths, and performing other notarial acts. These resources can be found online by searching for terms like “steps of notarization.” Using these guides will help you build your notary knowledge and confidence safely.

Be Prepared to Decline

If you don’t feel confident completing a notarization, be prepared to decline. It’s better to tell the customer you’re unsure than to risk making a mistake. Research notarial procedures afterward to understand where you went wrong.

Record Your Actions

If you decline a notarization, note it in your records, including the customer’s name, the type of document, and the reason for declining. This practice, along with recording all completed notarial acts in your journal, will protect you from false claims about your services.

By following these steps, you’ll establish a strong foundation for your notarial practice. Good luck!