How to Become a Process Server in Florida

A Florida process server is an individual who is licensed to deliver or “serve” legal notices and court documents to parties and legal representatives. This includes papers such as summonses, complaints, subpoenas and more. License processes are conducted by individual counties and courts in Florida.

If you’re interested in becoming a licensed process server in Florida, you’re in the right place. Read on to learn the step-by-step process of how to apply for your license.

Note: This is a general guide for the state of Florida. Processes vary by county, including fees and applications. Please check with your county for exact license requirements.

How to Get a Florida Process Server License

To become a process server in Florida, follow these seven steps.

Step 1: Meet eligibility requirements

You must meet the following base requirements to be eligible for a process server license in Florida:

• Be at least 18 years old
• Be a permanent resident of Florida
• Have no mental or legal disability

Step 2: Complete training and pass exam

Most Florida jurisdictions require process server applicants to complete a training program and pass an examination. Process server exams vary, so check with your county for exact information. 

The Florida Association of Professional Process Servers provides some circuit training and examinations for $180. Other counties may include the exam fee in the application fee.

Step 3: Submit the application

Florida process server applications and enrollment periods vary by circuit and county.  Find and complete the specific application form for your jurisdiction. Application fees vary, but typically range from $100-$300.

Step 4: Complete background check

Most Florida counties require process servers to pass a background check. These typically include fingerprinting and reviewing criminal records. Check with your county for specific details. 

Step 5: Purchase a $5,000 surety bond

Many Florida counties and judicial courts require process servers to purchase a surety bond to ensure proper completion of court-appointed duties per state legislature. 

Buy your Florida process server bond instantly online for just $50. You’ll receive your official bond in minutes via email. 

Step 6: File a certificate of good conduct 

All Florida counties process servers to file a certificate of good conduct. This proves you have a clean criminal background with no misdemeanors, felonies or pending cases.  Find and complete the specific certificate of good conduct form for your jurisdiction. 

Step 7: Attend a swearing-in ceremony

If required, attend your official swearing-in ceremony at the designated state, circuit or county office. 

Are Florida Process Server Licenses Valid Statewide?

No, Florida process server licenses vary by county or judicial circuit. Since there is no statewide license, you’ll need to meet requirements for the specific counties in which you work as a process server:

1. Sheriff-appointed counties: Licensed for a single county
2. Certified counties: Licensed through the court and serve all counties in the circuit
3. Motion and order counties: No licensing program and appointed by an individual judge

How to Renew Your Process Server License in Florida

The Florida process server license renewal method varies by county. Typically, licenses are valid for a one-year term. Check with your local county or court office for specific renewal instructions.

Your process server bond will also require annual renewal unless you select a multi-year term at purchase. 

How Much Does It Cost to Get a Process Server License

The exact cost of becoming a process server in Florida varies by county. You can expect to pay about $375-$575 for the following license-related fees:

• Application and exam: $100-$300
• Background check: $24
• Surety bond premium: $50*

*This reflects SuretyBonds.com Florida process server bond rates for a one-year term. 

More Resources 

• First Judicial Circuit of Florida: Process Servers 
• Second Judicial Circuit of Florida: Process Servers 
• Third Judicial Circuit of Florida: Process Server Application Form 
• Fifth Judicial Circuit of Florida: Process Servers 
• Ninth Judicial Circuit of Florida: Process Servers
• Eleventh Judicial Court of Florida: Process Servers
• Thirteenth Judicial Circuit of Florida: Process Server Application Form 
• Fifteenth Judicial Circuit of Florida: Process Servers
• Nineteenth Judicial Circuit of Florida: Process Servers 
• Broward County: Process Servers