Updated 1-30-24. Every state has different rules for renewing a Notary commission. Here are tips to help you avoid problems or delays when you renew.
1. Confirm when you can renew your Notary commission
The first step should always be to confirm when you can start the renewal process. In Louisiana, Notaries have a lifetime commission, meaning their commissions expire at the time of their deaths. How long it takes to process a Notary commission varies depending on the state you are commissioned in, so you need to be careful about when you submit your application. Too late, and your new commission won’t arrive until after your old one expires — which means you won’t be able to notarize until your new one arrives.
Some states don’t accept a renewal application if it’s submitted too early. For example, Montana Notaries cannot apply for reappointment more than 30 days before their current commission expires. Colorado, Idaho and Texas permit Notaries to start the renewal process up to 90 days before a commission expires. Illinois allows Notaries to start the renewal process 60 days before commission expiration and recommends filing for renewal at least 30 days before the commission expires. California and Florida recommend beginning the reappointment process at least 6 months prior to expiration.
2. Check to make sure you fulfill all state commission requirements
Applying for a Notary commission can be complicated. In California, for example, an applicant must not only fill out the application form, but also take an exam and submit fingerprints in order to be background screened. Having a list of your state’s requirements at hand can help make sure you don’t miss a required step.
3. Complete any required Notary training or testing
Some states require renewing Notaries to take an exam or additional training. If your state requires a course or exam, be sure to schedule time to complete them before your current commission expires. Pennsylvania requires Notaries to take a 3-hour education course within 6 months prior to reappointment. Hawaii Notaries must pass a written, closed-book exam with at least an 80 percent score. California and Colorado require both a course and exam for renewing Notaries (Colorado’s course and exam must be completed no more than 90 days before renewing a commission). Notaries renewing in Montana must complete 4 hours of Notary training 12 months prior to renewal (or for attorneys, 2 hours of Notary training annually as part of continuing legal education for the past 3 years) and pass an exam no more than 6 months before submitting the application for a commission.
4. Double-check your Notary renewal information is correct
The name and signature you use when notarizing should always match the name that appears on your Notary commission and your Notary bond, if your state requires one. When you complete a Notary commission renewal application, double-check that your information is complete and that there are no typos or inconsistencies with how you wish to sign your name when notarizing. For example, if you wish to notarize using the name “Jane Louise Doe” be sure that you write the full name on the renewal application and not “Jane L. Doe.”
5. The NNA can help you renew your Notary commission
If you need assistance renewing your commission, you can contact our Customer Care team by phone at 1-800-876-6827 or by email at Services@NationalNotary.org.
The NNA online Notary Knowledge Center has additional information on how to renew your Notary commission and how to become a Notary in different states.
David Thun is the Editorial Manager at the National Notary Association.
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