Key Takeaways
- Utah notary commissions are valid for 4 years
- Renewal requires retaking the exam
- Renewal should be started before commission expires
- There is no grace period after expiration
- A new $5,000 bond is required for each term
Last updated: January 2026
Commission Term and Renewal
Utah notary commissions last 4 years. Understanding the renewal process helps maintain continuous authority to notarize.
Commission Term
| Detail | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Term length | 4 years |
| Start date | Date of commission issuance |
| Jurisdiction | Statewide (all of Utah) |
| Renewal | Required to continue notarizing |
Renewal Requirements
Utah requires renewing notaries to:
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Exam | Retake the 35-question exam |
| Passing score | 61 of 65 points |
| Fee | $95 |
| New bond | $5,000 for new term |
| New oath | Required for each term |
Renewal Timeline
| Timeframe | Action |
|---|---|
| 90 days before | Begin renewal process |
| 60 days before | Schedule exam |
| 30 days before | Take exam, obtain new bond |
| Before expiration | Complete all steps |
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 |
| Client impact | Must find another notary |
After Expiration
If you let your commission expire:
| Situation | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Expired commission | Cannot notarize |
| Starting over | Full application process |
| New exam | Required |
| New bond | $5,000 |
| New seal | With new dates |
Commission Changes
During your term:
| Change Type | Action |
|---|---|
| Address change | Notify Lieutenant Governor's Office |
| Name change | Update commission, new seal |
| Lost/stolen seal | Report and replace immediately |
Best Practices for Renewal
| Practice | Why |
|---|---|
| Calendar reminders | Track expiration |
| Start early | Allow processing time |
| Take exam first | Ensures passage before deadline |
| Order bond early | Avoid delays |
| Order new seal | Before old expires |
On the Exam
Renewal questions focus on:
- Commission term: 4 years
- Renewal exam: Required
- Renewal fee: $95
- New bond: Required each term
- Grace period: None
Test Your Knowledge
How long is a Utah notary commission valid?
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Test Your Knowledge
What is the consequence of notarizing after your Utah commission expires?
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Test Your Knowledge
Is a new surety bond required when renewing a Utah notary commission?
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