Renewing your California notary commission
There's no automatic renewal in California. You reapply, take a course and the exam again. The big question is whether you qualify for the shorter 3-hour course.
Updated October 31, 2026. Facts from the California Secretary of State, CPS HR; sources at the bottom.
- Refresher course
- 3 hours, if eligible
- Exam
- Required again
- Fee
- $40
- New term
- 4 years
Who can take the 3-hour refresher
You can take an approved 3-hour refresher course instead of the 6-hour course only if all of these are true:
- You hold a current California notary commission.
- You have completed an approved 6-hour course at least once.
- You apply for reappointment before your current commission expires.
If your commission has already expired, you must take the 6-hour course again.
Steps to reappointment
- Complete an approved 3-hour refresher (or the 6-hour course if you don't qualify).
- Register for and pass the state exam again, bringing the $40 fee.
- Complete Live Scan fingerprints if required for your application.
- Receive your new commission, then file a new $15,000 bond and oath with your county clerk within 30 calendar days.
Practice for the exam with Notary Exam Prep.
Plan ahead
Start early. The refresher only counts if you apply before your commission expires, and a gap between commissions means you can't notarize until the new one is filed.
Our 3-hour renewal course
Our 3-hour renewal course is built and waiting on state approval. Join the waitlist and we'll email you the day it opens.
Common questions
Does a California notary commission renew automatically?
No. You must apply for reappointment, complete an approved course, and pass the exam again.
Can I take the 3-hour course if my commission expired?
No. The 3-hour refresher only counts if you apply before your current commission expires. After it expires, you need the 6-hour course.
Do I have to retake the exam to renew?
Yes. Reappointment applicants take the state exam again and pay the $40 application fee.
Sources
- Secretary of State: Complete approved education
- California Notary Public Handbook (2026)
- Secretary of State: Notary forms and fees
- CPS HR: Notary exam information
Golden State Notary Pro is an independent education company, not a government agency. Rules and fees change; confirm with the official source before you act.
Related guides
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