Understanding Florida Notary Services Acts

Each state regulates what notary publics can notarize, and this is reflected in the types of certificates we may use. A notarial act refers to any action a notary public is legally authorized to perform, typically involving verifying signatures, administering oaths, or certifying copies of documents.

In Florida, notaries are appointed and commissioned by the Office of the Governor and are authorized to perform six fundamental duties:

1. Administer oaths or affirmations

2. Take acknowledgments

3. Solemnize marriages

4. Attest to photocopies

5. Verify vehicle identification numbers (VINs)

6. Certify the contents of a safe-deposit box

   
   

   

   Mark is a member of the Florida Notary Association which helps him stay current with state regulations and laws.

   
   
   
   

Understanding the Differences Between Florida Notarial Service Acts

Administer Oaths or Affirmations

A notary public may administer an oath (sworn statement) or affirmation (solemn promise) and certify it when necessary for executing a document under the notary’s seal. When a notary places a signer under oath, it ensures the signer is legally accountable for the truthfulness of the document’s contents.

Take Acknowledgments

A notary public in Florida is authorized to take acknowledgments of deeds and other legal documents for recording purposes. When a notary signs a certificate of acknowledgment, they confirm the identity of the signer and verify that the signer willingly executed the document with full understanding of its contents.

Solemnize Marriages

In Florida, notaries public have the unique authority to solemnize marriages. This duty is shared with ordained ministers, judicial officers, and certain other officials. When a notary solemnizes a marriage, they certify that the couple has been legally joined according to Florida law.

Attest to Photocopies

A notary public may oversee the creation of a photocopy and attest to its accuracy, provided the document is not a vital record (such as a birth certificate) or a public record that must be copied by its custodian. This service ensures that copies of original documents are accurate and legally recognized.

Verify Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs)

Notaries are authorized to verify vehicle identification numbers (VINs) and odometer readings. This verification process helps prevent fraud and ensures the accuracy of vehicle ownership and registration records, particularly during title transfers or new vehicle registrations.

Certify the Contents of a Safe-Deposit Box

If a bank has not received payment for a safe-deposit box rental for three months, the bank may notify the lessee that the box will be opened if payment is not made within 30 days. If the lessee fails to respond, a bank officer and a notary public may open the box. The notary public will execute a certificate detailing the lessee’s name, the date of the box’s opening, and an inventory of its contents. A copy of this certificate is sent to the lessee’s last known address, and the contents are secured in the bank’s vault.

Expanding Notary Services

Beyond these core duties, notaries may offer additional services that complement their notary business, such as document preparation assistance, fingerprinting, and other business offerings. Expanding service offerings can enhance business opportunities while continuing to provide essential legal support to individuals and businesses.

By understanding and effectively executing these notarial acts, Florida notaries can uphold the integrity of legal documents and provide valuable services to their communities.