Key Takeaways
- Arizona notary commissions are valid for 4 years
- Renewal applications should be submitted before expiration
- Renewing notaries must also pass the competency exam as of July 2025
- A new bond is required for each commission term
- Failure to renew means you cannot notarize until re-commissioned
Last updated: January 2026
Commission Term and Renewal
Understanding your commission term and renewal requirements is essential for maintaining your authorization to perform notarial acts in Arizona.
Commission Term
| Detail | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Term length | 4 years |
| Start date | Date on commission certificate |
| Jurisdiction | Statewide (all of Arizona) |
| Renewal | Required to continue notarizing |
Renewal Timeline
| Timeframe | Action |
|---|---|
| 90 days before expiration | Begin renewal process |
| 60 days before | Pass competency exam if not already done |
| 30 days before | Submit renewal application |
| Expiration date | Old commission ends |
| After expiration | Cannot notarize until new commission received |
There is NO grace period. If your commission expires before you receive your new commission, you cannot perform any notarial acts.
Renewal Requirements
As of July 1, 2025, renewing notaries must also pass the competency exam:
| Requirement | New Applicants | Renewing Notaries |
|---|---|---|
| Pass exam | Yes | Yes (as of July 2025) |
| Surety bond | $5,000 | $5,000 (new bond required) |
| Application fee | $43 | $43 |
| New seal | N/A | Required (new expiration date) |
Renewal Process Steps
- Pass competency exam (if not passed within 90 days)
- Obtain new $5,000 surety bond (old bond expires with old commission)
- Complete renewal application
- Submit with $43 fee to Secretary of State
- Receive new commission (~4 weeks processing)
- Purchase new seal (reflects new expiration date)
If Your Commission Expires
| Scenario | Consequence |
|---|---|
| Notarizing after expiration | Unauthorized notarization (void) |
| Gap in coverage | Must wait for new commission |
| Catching up | Start renewal process from beginning |
Changing Your Information
If you move or change your name during your commission:
| Change | Action Required | Penalty for Non-Compliance |
|---|---|---|
| Address change | Notify within 30 days | $25 late fee |
| Name change | File amendment with SOS | Cannot use new name until updated |
End of Commission Duties
If you choose NOT to renew your commission, you must within 3 months of expiration:
| Item | Requirement | Penalty for Non-Compliance |
|---|---|---|
| Journal | Mail to Secretary of State | $50-500 fine |
| Seal | Destroy or mail to SOS | $50-500 fine |
| Records | Submit to SOS | $50-500 fine |
Test Your Knowledge
How long is an Arizona notary commission valid?
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Test Your Knowledge
What happens if an Arizona notary fails to notify the Secretary of State of an address change within 30 days?
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