Key Takeaways
- Oregon notary commissions are valid for 4 years
- Renewal requires retaking the exam as of January 1, 2025
- Renewal applications should be submitted before expiration
- There is no grace period - cannot notarize after expiration
- A new bond is required for each commission term
Last updated: January 2026
Commission Term and Renewal
Oregon notary commissions last 4 years. Understanding the renewal process is essential to maintain continuous authority to notarize.
Commission Term
| Detail | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Term length | 4 years |
| Expiration | Date on commission certificate |
| Jurisdiction | Statewide (all of Oregon) |
| Renewal | Required to continue notarizing |
2025 Change - Exam for Renewals
Important: As of January 1, 2025, renewal applicants must:
| Old Requirement | New Requirement |
|---|---|
| No exam for renewals | Exam required for ALL |
| Just application + fee | Training + exam + application |
Renewal Timeline
| Timeframe | Action |
|---|---|
| 90 days before | Begin renewal process |
| 60 days before | Complete training |
| 30-45 days before | Pass exam and submit application |
| Before expiration | Commission must be renewed |
Renewal Requirements
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Training | Complete Notary Basics Training |
| Exam | Pass 20-question exam (80%) |
| Application | Submit online |
| Fee | $40 |
| Bond | New $10,000 bond required |
| Oath | New oath of office |
No Grace Period
CRITICAL: If your commission expires:
| Consequence | Impact |
|---|---|
| Cannot notarize | Any acts are void |
| No exceptions | Even if renewal pending |
| Must wait | Until new commission issued |
Name or Address Changes
During your commission:
| Change Type | Action Required |
|---|---|
| Name change | Notify Secretary of State, get new seal |
| Address change | Update within 30 days |
| Employment change | Notify if affects eligibility |
On the Exam
Renewal questions focus on:
- Commission term: 4 years
- Renewal exam: Required as of 2025
- Renewal fee: $40
- New bond: Required for each term
- Grace period: None
Test Your Knowledge
What is the consequence of notarizing after your Oregon commission expires?
A
B
C
D
Test Your Knowledge
As of January 1, 2025, what new requirement applies to Oregon notary renewals?
A
B
C
D