remote online notary association

We, as notary publics, play a crucial role in verifying the identities of individuals involved in various transactions. One key aspect of this responsibility is the reliance on valid identification documents as outlined in Section 117.05(5)(b)2. of the Florida Statutes.

This statute specifies the types of identification that may be accepted by a notary public, including:

1. A Florida identification card or driver license issued by the public agency authorized to issue driver licenses.
2. A driver license or identification card issued by a public agency authorized to issue driver licenses in a state other than Florida or in a territory of the United States, or Canada or Mexico.

In today's digital age, the question arises: Can a notary rely upon a digital driver license or identification card issued by the applicable public agency?

To shed light on this matter, we turn to the Notary Section of the Executive Office of the Governor for clarification. According to their official stance, the reliance upon a digital ID for identification purposes only from the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles is permissible.

This is particularly relevant in light of recent developments, such as the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles issuing digital Florida driver licenses. With the advancements in technology, individuals may now possess digital versions of their driver licenses, providing a convenient and accessible form of identification.

For notaries public in Florida, this means that they can confidently accept digital driver licenses issued by the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles as valid identification when performing notarial acts. This acknowledgment of digital identification reflects the state's commitment to embracing innovation while upholding the integrity of notarial practices.

In conclusion, the acceptance of digital driver licenses for identification purposes by notaries public aligns with the evolving landscape of identification methods. As technology continues to advance, so too must our understanding and adaptation of acceptable forms of identification in the realm of notarial acts.

For more information on notarial practices and requirements in Florida, individuals are encouraged to consult the official guidelines provided by the Notary Section of the Executive Office of the Governor.

By staying informed and adapting to changes in technology, notaries public can continue to fulfill their crucial role in ensuring the authenticity and legality of various transactions in the state of Florida.

By: Yahaira Rodriguez

In today's fast-paced digital world, Remote Online Notarization (RON) platforms have become indispensable tools for notaries. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting out in the notary field, the question often arises: How many RON platforms should I sign up for?

The straightforward answer? As many as you can afford to, but at the very least, have two platforms within arm's reach. Why? Because in the realm of technology, unexpected technical glitches can happen, disrupting your workflow and potentially causing you to reschedule appointments. Having a backup plan readily available ensures you can seamlessly continue with your day even if one platform experiences downtime.

Moreover, the sheer variety of RON platforms available underscores the importance of diversifying your options. Different platforms cater to specific needs and specialties within the notary landscape. For instance, some platforms are tailored for real estate transactions, while others excel in handling general notary work. Understanding your requirements and the preferences of your signers is key to selecting the most suitable platform.

Consider the nature of your signings. Are your signers predominantly foreign nationals? If so, opting for a platform that accommodates biometric authentication can enhance security and streamline the process. Likewise, if your signings involve multiple participants, look for platforms capable of handling a higher number of signers, such as those supporting up to 10 individuals.

Furthermore, certain signings may necessitate additional features, such as the presence of witnesses or real-time monitoring by title companies. Choosing a platform that caters to these specific requirements ensures a smoother and more efficient signing experience for all parties involved.

Conducting thorough research before committing to a platform is paramount. While the convenience and efficiency of digital notarization are undeniable, the reliability and longevity of RON platforms can vary. As exemplified by the sudden closure of platforms like e-Notary Log, notaries must stay vigilant and proactive in safeguarding their operations against unforeseen disruptions.

In conclusion, the number of RON platforms you should sign up for ultimately depends on your budget, workflow requirements, and the diversity of your clientele. By maintaining a strategic balance between accessibility, functionality, and reliability, you can navigate the evolving landscape of digital notarization with confidence and resilience.

List of Florida Approved Platforms