California Notary Renewal (2026): When to Apply, What It Takes, and What Happens If It Lapses

Term

4 years from the date on the commission.

“The term of office of a notary public is for four years commencing with the date specified in the commission.”

Source: 2026 California Notary Public Handbook (reprints the Government Code)

When to take the exam

At least 6 months before expiry; results valid 1 year.

“To avoid a break in commission terms, you should take the exam at least six months prior to the expiration date of your current commission. Test results are valid for one year from the date of the examination.”

Source: 2026 California Notary Public Handbook (reprints the Government Code)

When the new commission arrives

30 days before the current one expires, if everything is done.

“Your notary public commission for reappointment will be issued 30 days prior to the expiration date of your current commission if you have complied with all the requirements to become a notary public.”

Source: 2026 California Notary Public Handbook (reprints the Government Code)

Course

Three-hour refresher (a six-hour course also counts).

“A notary public who holds a current California notary public commission and who has completed an approved six-hour course at least one time is required to take and satisfactorily complete an approved three-hour refresher course prior to reappointment as a notary public.”

Source: 2026 California Notary Public Handbook (reprints the Government Code)

“A six-hour approved education course always satisfies the education requirement, regardless of whether you are a new applicant or applying for reappointment.”

Source: 2026 California Notary Public Handbook (reprints the Government Code)

Fingerprints

Required again on every application.

“All notary public applicants, whether or not they have held a previous commission, must submit fingerprints to the California Department of Justice for the purpose of a background check.”

Source: 2026 California Notary Public Handbook (reprints the Government Code)

Convictions

Disclose every conviction on each reappointment application.

“Failure to disclose all conviction information on each application for an appointment or reappointment is grounds for denial.”

Source: 2026 California Notary Public Handbook (reprints the Government Code)

Refresher no longer counts

Take the six-hour course again.

“If the notary public’s commission has expired, the individual must satisfactorily complete a sixhour notary public education course before receiving a new commission, even if the individual already once satisfactorily completed an approved six-hour course for a previous commission.”

Source: 2026 California Notary Public Handbook (reprints the Government Code)