If you’re thinking about becoming a notary, there are a few questions that you might have that can often be answered by talking to someone at your local courthouse. After completing the coursework required to be a notary, you need to complete a notary application Florida offices have created in order to practice in the state. You will usually get your test scores about two weeks after you take the state exam to be a notary. You can have your scores sent to an email address or delivered to a mailing address that you list when you take the exam.
Being a notary means that you will need to be bonded by the state. You will need to have your fingerprints taken, which can be done at most police stations. There are usually certain forms that you have to complete when your fingerprints are taken so that all of the information is on file. In most instances, you are not eligible to be a notary if you have convictions on your criminal record. However, minor convictions can sometimes be overlooked depending on the specific charges. If you have a change of address, you need to let the state know within 30 days so that important documents can be delivered in a timely manner. You also need to make the state aware of any other changes that might impact being a notary. Any name change would be included in this information. An example would be if you were to get married while being a notary and would need to submit a name change or even a different address. There will be a time when your commission expires. This means that you would need to submit the proper documents to have your license renewed so that you can continue practicing in the state.