Renewing your notary commission in California is a straightforward process, but it requires timely action and attention to detail. A notary commission in California is valid for four years, and it’s crucial to start the renewal process before your commission expires to avoid any disruptions in your notarial services.
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to renew your notary commission in California.
Start Early: Timing is Key
It’s recommended to start the renewal process at least six months before your current notary commission expires. This ensures you have ample time to meet all the requirements, including completing the education course, passing the exam, and submitting your paperwork. If you wait too long and your commission expires, you’ll have to start the process as if you were a new applicant.
Complete a Six-Hour Training Course
California requires all notaries renewing their commission to complete a six-hour approved training course. You can take the course online through our state-approved 3-hour Notary Renewal Course.
Approved courses will cover California’s notary laws and practices, and you’ll receive a certificate of completion once you finish the course. Be sure to keep this certificate as you’ll need it when submitting your application.
Pass the Notary Exam
Renewing notaries are also required to pass the California Notary Public Exam. This exam tests your knowledge of notary laws and procedures, and you must schedule it through a state-approved vendor, such as the Secretary of State’s office or a contracted testing center.
What to Bring to the Exam: (Download The Exam Preparation Checklist)
- A completed application
- A valid government-issued photo ID
- The required exam fee
- Your course completion certificate
Passing the exam typically takes 1-2 weeks for results to be processed, so plan accordingly.
Submit Your Application to the Secretary of State
Once you’ve completed your education course and passed the exam, you’ll need to submit your renewal application to the California Secretary of State. This includes:
- Your application form
- A copy of your course completion certificate
- The exam pass notification
- The filing fee (currently $40)
Ensure that all parts of your application are filled out correctly and legibly to avoid delays in processing.
Obtain a New Surety Bond
California law requires notaries to have a $15,000 surety bond to protect the public from notarial misconduct. Even if you had one for your previous commission, you’ll need to get a new bond when you renew.
You can obtain a surety bond from most notary bond providers, and you must file proof of the bond with your application. Be sure to keep a copy of the bond for your records.
File Your Oath and Bond with the County Clerk
After receiving your commission from the Secretary of State, you must file your oath of office and bond with the county clerk’s office in the county where you’ll be performing notarial services. This must be done within 30 days of receiving your commission, so it’s important to act promptly.
- Bring your notary commission certificate, the $15,000 surety bond, and a government-issued ID.
- Pay the filing fee, which varies by county.
Failure to file your oath and bond on time may result in your commission being voided.
Purchase Notary Supplies
To perform your duties as a California notary, you’ll need to obtain new notary supplies if your old ones are expired or worn out. These include:
- A new notary stamp/seal with your updated commission information.
- A new notary journal to record all notarial acts.
Make sure your notary stamp follows the guidelines set by the state, including containing your name, commission number, and expiration date.
Stay Informed and Up to Date
Once you’ve renewed your notary commission, it’s important to stay informed of any changes in notary laws or procedures. Consider joining notary associations such as the Notary Public Association to access resources, updates, and continuing education. Networking with other notaries can also be helpful for staying current on best practices.
Conclusion
Renewing your notary commission in California is a critical part of continuing your notarial career. By planning ahead, completing the necessary education, passing the exam, and submitting all paperwork on time, you can ensure a smooth renewal process. Remember to stay compliant with California’s notary laws and always perform your duties with integrity and professionalism.
For more detailed information, reach out to our team at team@notarypublicassociation.org.
