How to Prepare for Your Notary Appointment in Orlando

Getting a document notarized is a straightforward process, but being prepared makes the appointment faster and smoother for everyone. Here's what you need to know before your notary arrives or before you log on for a remote session.

1. Bring a Valid Government-Issued Photo ID

Florida law requires the notary to positively identify you before witnessing your signature. Acceptable forms of ID include a driver's license, passport, or state-issued ID card. Your ID must be current and unexpired. An expired ID — even one that expired last week — cannot be accepted.

2. Do Not Sign the Document Beforehand

This is the most common mistake. If you sign a document before the notary is present, the notary cannot notarize it. The whole point of notarization is that the notary witnesses the act of signing. If you've already signed, you'll need to wait for a fresh copy.

3. Make Sure the Document is Complete

A notary cannot witness a signature on a document with blank spaces that are intended to be filled in. Blanks suggest the document may be altered after notarization. Fill in all required fields before the appointment — leave only the signature lines unsigned.

4. Know What Type of Notarization You Need

There are several types of notarial acts in Florida:

• Acknowledgment — You acknowledge that you signed the document voluntarily. Common for deeds and powers of attorney.
• Jurat — You swear under oath that the contents of a document are true. Common for affidavits.
• Copy Certification — The notary certifies that a copy is a true reproduction of an original.

If you're not sure which type you need, the receiving institution (a court, bank, or government agency) can usually tell you. When in doubt, ask us — we're happy to advise.

5. For Remote Online Notarization (RON): Test Your Setup

TrustPoint offers RON sessions for clients throughout Florida. Before your session:

• Make sure you have a stable internet connection and a working camera and microphone.
• You'll need to complete a knowledge-based authentication (KBA) quiz — a set of questions drawn from public records to verify your identity.
• Have your government-issued ID ready to photograph.

RON is fully legal in Florida under Fla. Stat. § 117.265 and is accepted in all 50 states.

Ready to Book?

TrustPoint Notary and Courier Services is available 7 days a week, 9 AM to 7 PM, serving Orlando and the greater Central Florida area. Mobile appointments and remote sessions are both available.