How to Get a Document Notarized in Florida: A Step-by-Step Guide

Getting a Document Notarized in Florida: What You Need to Know

Notarization is a legal process that authenticates signatures on documents by verifying the identity of the signer and confirming their willingness to sign. In Florida, it's required for many of life's most important transactions — from buying a home to granting power of attorney to a family member.

If you've never had a document notarized before — or if you want to make sure you're doing it right — this guide will walk you through the entire process from start to finish.

Step 1: Confirm Your Document Requires Notarization

Not every document needs to be notarized, but many critical ones do. Florida commonly requires notarization for:

• Real estate deeds and mortgage documents

• Power of attorney documents

• Wills and trusts (though wills require witnesses as well)

• Affidavits and sworn statements

• Vehicle title transfers

• Business contracts and agreements

• Court filings in certain cases

• Medical consent forms for incapacitated individuals

If you're unsure whether your document requires notarization, check the document itself — it will often state 'Sworn and subscribed before a Notary Public' or include a signature line for a notary seal.

Step 2: Gather a Valid Government-Issued Photo ID

Florida notaries are required to verify your identity before notarizing anything. You must present a current, valid, government-issued photo ID. Acceptable forms include:

• Florida driver's license or state ID

• U.S. passport or passport card

• U.S. military ID

• Permanent resident card (green card)

• Foreign government-issued passport

The name on your ID must match the name on the document. If there's a discrepancy, it could delay or complicate the notarization.

Step 3: Do NOT Sign the Document Before Meeting the Notary

This is the most common mistake people make. Many documents — especially affidavits and acknowledgments — must be signed in the physical presence of the notary. If you sign beforehand, the notary may refuse to complete the notarization and you may need to obtain a new document. When in doubt, wait.

Step 4: Choose How You Want to Get Notarized

In Florida, you have three main options:

• In-person at a notary location (banks, shipping stores, courthouses)

• Mobile notary — a notary travels to you

• Remote online notarization (RON) — done entirely over a secure video call

Mobile notary is the most convenient option for most people, especially when dealing with multi-page loan closing packages, hospital situations, or time-sensitive deadlines. Remote online notarization is ideal when you need to sign quickly from anywhere, including out of state.

Step 5: Complete the Appointment

During the appointment, the notary will verify your identity, watch you sign the document, complete the notarial certificate (acknowledgment or jurat), and apply their official seal and signature. The whole process typically takes 15 to 30 minutes for standard documents, and a bit longer for loan closing packages.

Step 6: Keep a Certified Copy If Needed

Once the document is notarized, it's legally valid. For important documents like deeds and powers of attorney, you may want to make certified copies for your records. Ask your notary or the receiving institution about their requirements.

How Much Does Notarization Cost in Florida?

Florida law caps notary fees at $10 per notarial act. Mobile notaries charge an additional travel fee based on distance and time. Remote online notarization services typically charge a flat fee per session. Always confirm pricing upfront.

Need a Notary in Jacksonville, FL?

The Jacksonville Notary offers mobile notary ervices throughout Jacksonville, Ponte Vedra, Orange Park, Jacksonville Beach, Mandarin, Southside, and surrounding areas. Same-day appointments are often available, and after-hours service is available for urgent needs.

📞 Call or text: (904) 762-5310