A hand drawing of the Oviedo water tower with a rooster weather vane on top, oak trees in the background, and a few ducks on a small pond.

I finally found a notary in Oviedo who doesn't charge an arm and a leg (plus my other boring-but-useful errand hacks)

From shipping to stamps to that one weird thing you need to file, here's where I go (and avoid) in Oviedo.

I've lived in Oviedo for about seven years now, and I still remember the panic of needing a notary on a Saturday afternoon. I drove to three different UPS Stores before I found one that was open and actually had a notary on staff. That day I promised myself I'd figure out all the boring-but-essential stuff in town so I wouldn't have to panic again. So here's my working list—updated whenever I discover something new. Maybe it'll save you a headache.

Notary public: where to find one that won't cost you $15 a signature

I used to think notaries were only at banks or title companies. Then I learned that the Seminole County Tax Collector's office in Oviedo (at 1355 Oviedo Marketplace Blvd) will notarize documents for free if they're related to vehicle or vessel transactions. I walked in with a title transfer and was out in ten minutes. No appointment needed, but you have to show up before 4pm.

For other documents, the Oviedo Library has a notary service that's free for cardholders. You do need to make an appointment, and they only do it during certain hours (check their website). I've used it twice—once for a power of attorney, once for a simple affadavit. They're super friendly. Just don't forget your ID and don't sign the document beforehand (learned that the hard way).

If you need one on a weekend, the UPS Store on Mitchell Hammock has a notary on Saturday until 2pm. They charge $10 per signature, which is standard. But call ahead—sometimes the notary is out. I've been burned on that.

Shipping wars: UPS vs FedEx vs USPS in Oviedo

I do a fair amount of online selling—old kids' clothes, books, the occasional collectible. For most small packages, the Oviedo Post Office on Central Avenue is my default. The line can be long at lunchtime, but if you go after 2pm on a weekday, it's usually quiet. The self-service kiosk is open 24/7 if you just need to weigh and ship a prepaid label.

For bigger or fragile items, I go to Pack & Ship on Lockwood Blvd (just north of the 417). The guy who runs it is a little grumpy but he knows his stuff. I shipped a vintage lamp there once and he packed it like a pro—no damage. It costs more than the post office, but for things that matter, it's worth it.

FedEx on Alafaya? Avoid during rush hour. The parking lot is a nightmare. And the UPS Store on Mitchell Hammock is fine for standard stuff but their packing supplies are overpriced. I buy my tape and bubble wrap at the Dollar Tree on 426.

Quick comparison: Notary options in Oviedo

Location	Cost	Appointment needed?	Best for
Seminole Tax Collector	Free (vehicle/vessel only)	No	Title transfers, registration
Oviedo Library	Free (cardholders)	Yes (online)	General documents (POA, affidavits)
UPS Store (Mitchell Hammock)	$10/sig	No, but call ahead	Weekends, quick trips
Mobile notary (various)	$25-50 + travel	Yes	Convenience, home visits

Errands that somehow take all day: DMV, tags, and taxes

The Oviedo DMV (actually the Tax Collector's office) is surprisingly efficient. I've been there four times and never waited more than 20 minutes. They handle driver's licenses, vehicle registration, and property tax payments. Pro tip: go on a Tuesday or Wednesday mid-morning. Mondays and Fridays are crowded, and the lunch hour is a mess.

For property taxes, you can also pay online at SeminoleCountyTaxCollector.gov. I do that now—one less trip. But if you need a physical receipt (like for a refinance), you have to go in person. I learned that the hard way when my bank demanded a stamped receipt. So now I always ask.

One more thing: the Oviedo City Hall does certain permits and licenses. I had to get a permit for a fence once. The woman at the counter was really helpful, but the process took three visits because I didn't have the right survey. Now I know: bring your property survey, a check, and a copy of your HOA approval if you have one.

The Oviedo Library: more than just books (free notary, printing, and tax help)

I'm at the Oviedo Library at least once a month. Besides the free notary, they have public computers and printing that costs 10 cents per page (black and white). I've printed tax forms there, boarding passes, even a last-minute school project. The staff is patient with people who don't know how to use the copier (me, multiple times).

During tax season, they host free tax preparation through AARP (for low-income seniors) and VITA (for anyone earning under $60k). I haven't used it, but a friend did and saved $200 on a preparer. You have to book an appointment online.

Also: they have a notary appointment booking page on their website. I book mine a week ahead. That way I don't have to scramble.

One weird thing: getting keys made and shoes fixed

This isn't strictly notary or shipping, but it's the kind of errand you don't know where to go until you need it. For keys, I go to the Ace Hardware on Mitchell Hammock. They do standard keys for $2.50 and have a machine that copies tricky ones. I've never had a bad key from them.

For shoe repair, there's a place on Lockwood called Oviedo Cobbler (in the same strip mall as the Pack & Ship). I had a pair of boots resoled there for $35, and they lasted another two years. He also fixes zippers and leather bags. Cash only, though. I forgot that the first time and had to run to the ATM.

And for dry cleaning? I'm still looking for a good one. Don't trust the place on Alafaya near the Walmart—they shrunk a sweater of mine. If you have a recommendation, email me.

▶ Watch: A local vlog showing a day of running errands in Oviedo, including the post office and library
Find it on YouTube → “Oviedo Florida errands notary shipping tips”

Questions folks ask me

Can I get something notarized at a bank in Oviedo if I'm not a customer?

Most banks (Chase, Wells Fargo, etc.) in Oviedo will notarize for free only if you're a customer. If you're not, they'll either say no or charge a fee (usually $10-15). Better to go to the library or tax collector.

What's the cheapest way to ship a small package within Florida?

For small, lightweight packages, USPS First Class is cheapest (starting around $3.50). You can print a label at home and drop it in any mailbox. For heavier stuff, compare rates on Pirate Ship—it's free and often cheaper than going to the counter.

Does the Oviedo post office have a passport acceptance facility?

Yes, the Oviedo Post Office on Central Avenue accepts passport applications by appointment. You need to schedule online. They also take passport photos for $15. The library does not do passports.

Where can I get a money order in Oviedo?

Publix customer service sells money orders up to $1000 (fee around $1). The post office also sells them up to $1000. Walmart on Alafaya has them too, but the line can be long.

I need to fax something. Is there a place in Oviedo that does faxing?

The UPS Store on Mitchell Hammock does faxing (send and receive). The Oviedo Library also has fax capability but you need to ask at the desk. Cost is around $1-2 per page.

I hope this saves you at least one frustrating afternoon of driving around town. I'm always adding to my list—if you know a better place for dry cleaning or a notary that does late hours, let me know. We're all in this boring-but-necessary boat together. At least we have good weather and a decent library. Happy erranding, Oviedo.

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