3 Tips for Renewing Your Notary Commission
The rules for notary commission renewal vary from state to state, but no matter where you obtained your notary certification, there are a few steps you can take to ensure the renewal process goes as smoothly as possible.
Take the time to look thoroughly through what it takes to renew your notary commission to avoid being rendered unable to notarize due to a lapse in your old and new commissions.
1. Determine Whether Training or Testing Is Needed
Though not all states require exams or added training for renewals, many states do. Courses and testing requirements in states that do require additional assessments, such as California and Colorado, will vary from state to state. Florida notary renewal, a state without such requirements, may be a less time-consuming process.
2. Determine When You’re Eligible
The window for your notary commission renewal opens anywhere from 6 months to 30 days prior to the expiration date. States have different rules regarding when you can and cannot begin the renewal process, with some states recommending it be taken care of months in advance and others not accepting renewal applications outside of a specified time with relation to your commission’s date of expiration.
Even if it isn’t possible to submit your application months in advance, it’s best to be aware of the requirements and time frame you have to complete the renewal in the meantime.
3. Proofread the Details
Notary commission renewals often carry less pressure than obtaining it in the first place, but it’s still important to make sure all of your paperwork is in order. Double-check the spelling, dates and your signature to make sure they all match your current notary bond. Make sure that you always maintain consistency and use the same name that you will sign when notarizing as is on your paperwork. Nicknames, initials or other abbreviations on renewal applications need to reflect your signature on notarized documents.