How To Become a Notary Public

A Notary Public is an official of integrity appointed by state government – typically by the secretary of state – to serve the public as an impartial witness in performing a variety of official fraud-deterrent acts related to the signing of important documents.  These official acts are call notarizations or notarial acts.

Sensitive documents – such as property deeds, wills and powers of attorney are some of the documents that a Notary Public will witness.  Some documents may even require the Notary to place the signer under an oath declaring under penalty of perjury that the information contained in a document is true and correct.

Notary Public’s can trace their history back to the ancient Roman Republic around 100 BC. Where they were called scribes, writers or notaries.  Notaries are easily the oldest continuing branch of the legal profession worldwide.

To become a Notary Public, the requirements depend on what state you reside in.  In 32 of our 50 states, the main requirements are to fill out a form and pay a fee, and many states have restrictions concerning notaries with criminal histories.  In 18 states notaries are required to take a course, pass an exam, or both.  Check with your state for specific notary requirements where you reside.

As well, most states require the Notary Public to be bonded, to protect the public from negligent acts by a Notary in carrying out their duties.

Ashton Agency can help you become a Notary Public in most states.  Ashton has been serving the bonding needs of businesses across America for over 45 years.  Call (800) 451-4854 to speak with one of our customer service representatives, or visit our website at http://ashtonagency.com.

What Is A DR-123?

Florida Statute 211.08(10(a) (Exhibit A) requires auto dealers to have the DR-123, Partial Exemption for a motor vehicle sold to a resident of another state. At the time of the sale, nonresident purchasers have to complete Form DR-123, Affadivit for Partial Exemption of Motor Vehicle Sold for Licensing in Another State, which is a notarized statement of his or her intent to license the vehicle in another state within 45 days.

If the Department of Revenue examiner does not find a Notarized version of the DR-123, your dealership could be penalized with deficiency fees between 6% and what the dealer collected, plus interest, plus penalties.

Click here for the Affadivit form.

Ashton Agency sells notary bonds, and of course, DMV bonds. We also provide garage liability insurance with competitive rates. We can match or beat our competitors' prices, so contact us today for your free quote. Call (800) 451-4854 (East of the Mississippi) or (800) 452-2663 (West) and let us help you!