As a Notary Public that holds both commissions in traditional notary services and remote online notary (RON) services. I am writing to share my renewal experiences, I’ve recently uncovered regarding the processing of remote online notary applications in Florida. While I was successful in renewing my traditional notary commission, I have discovered a substantial problem related to the timelines for processing RON applications. It has come to my attention that the state of Florida is currently facing a significant backlog in processing these applications, with the focus now primarily on those submitted two to three months behind the current month. As a direct result of this backlog, I was recently notified that my Remote Online Notary (RON) application, which I submitted approximately six months ago had been rejected and I had to submit my application, which was done in February. The stated reason for the rejection was that the state’s current policy only accepts RON applications within a specific limited timeframe that is tied to the renewal requirements. This means that I am now facing the unfortunate consequence of being penalized for having to proactively submitted my RON application well in advance of the state’s current, restricted processing parameters. Had I been aware of this operational stipulation, I could have adjusted my planning accordingly and avoided this predicament. This situation places my RON business operations at a considerable point of risk, as I am now potentially facing the possibility of not receiving approval for my application by April 2, 2026. This, in turn, means that my RON business will likely need to temporarily halt its operations until my application is eventually processed and approved, which could potentially cause significant financial setbacks. What makes this situation particularly perplexing is the fact that, within Florida, the notary commission numbers are identical for both traditional notary services and the remote online notary services. This apparent inconsistency, coupled with the existing processing delays and the rejection of my timely application, serves as a clear illustration of the potential inefficiencies that can exist within government operations, especially when it comes to managing evolving technological services. The old adage, “Time is Money,” certainly rings true here. Fortunately, I am in a position where I can pivot my efforts and focus on other existing business lines during this anticipated, short-term operational delay. It just would be more sensible, if both commission lines could be approved at the same time, given that all things are in compliance. This leaves me, just shaking my head! I grew up as a military “brat”, this is what would be referred to as a “hurried up and wait” or some people in the enlisted military would say a “cluster.…..”
Definately a cluster, I’m so sorry. As if we need any added stress to what we already juggle running this business.
Being a military brat and a veteran I giggled at your hurry up and wait and cluster….. However, I am not laughing at your situation.
I learned something when I renewed my commission in Pennsylvania at the end of 2024. I always reapply 6 months out, and had all of my documents (and new stamp) needed for going to the recorder of deeds about 60 prior to my commission expiring. I took care of things immediately and reapplied for my RON. Received my approval email within 48 or so hours. I thought I was good to go. Went to set up a RON closing the first day of my new commission and I was no longer approved! I had to hurry up and reselect all of my RON providers on the state website. Thankfully, that particular RON platform pushed my approval through.
NC won’t allow a renewal application until 10 weeks before expiration of your current commission. I was told in class that if it’s received before then, they will not keep it and we would have to resubmit within that timeframe. Luckily when I sent my renewal request I didn’t have any issues. The test was a whole lot more difficult for renewal though. The questions were not very clear from what I remember and I had to keep re-reading a couple of them. Luckily I passed on the first try. It was a bit stressful!