Moving States as a Notary: How to Handle Your Commission Transfer

Notary commissions do not transfer between states. If you move, your current commission stops being valid the day you establish residency in a new state. Here is what to do.

Before You Move

1. Stop notarizing. You cannot perform notarial acts under your old commission once you have moved. Documents notarized under an out-of-state commission are invalid.
2. Notify your current state. Contact the Secretary of State (or whoever issued your commission) and let them know you are resigning. Some states require you to return your seal.
3. Finish any pending work. Complete all outstanding notarizations before you move.
4. Tell your clients. Let people know you are relocating and when your services will stop.
5. Surrender or destroy your seal. Even if your old state does not require it, deface or destroy your seal so it cannot be used by anyone else. A leftover seal is a fraud risk.

Research Your New State’s Requirements

Every state has different rules. Some require education courses, exams, background checks, or bonds. Others have minimal requirements. Check the new state’s Secretary of State website or notary division for the specifics.

Common differences between states:

• Education requirements range from zero to six hours or more.
• Some states require an exam, others do not.
• Bond amounts range from $0 to $25,000 or more.
• Commission terms range from 3 to 10 years.
• Some states require a journal, others do not.

For example, moving from California to Texas means you no longer need a state-approved course or exam, but you do need a $10,000 bond. Moving from California to Florida requires completing a 3-hour online course and posting a $7,500 bond. The differences are significant enough that you should research early.

Getting Commissioned in Your New State

The process is essentially the same as getting commissioned for the first time:

1. Complete any required education course.
2. Pass the exam if the state requires one.
3. Submit the application with required documents and fees.
4. Complete a background check or Live Scan if required.
5. File your bond and oath if required.
6. Order a new seal that meets the new state’s specifications.

Processing times vary by state. Some take a few weeks, others take several months. Start early so there is no gap in your ability to work.

Your prior notary experience does not exempt you from the new state’s requirements. Even if you have been a notary for 20 years in California, you still need to follow the new state’s process from scratch. The only advantage you have is familiarity with the general workflow.

Setting Up in the New State

Once commissioned:

• Get your new seal and any required supplies (journal, stamp, etc.).
• Update your website, business cards, and online listings.
• Join local notary associations or networking groups.
• Learn the new state’s notary laws. Do not assume they are the same as your old state.

Pay particular attention to differences in acceptable forms of identification, fee structures, and journal requirements. What was standard practice in your old state might be a violation in the new one. For instance, some states allow notaries to accept expired IDs under certain circumstances, while others do not.

Special Case: Moving Within California

If you move within California but change counties, you must file a new oath and bond with the county clerk in your new county within 30 days. Your commission remains valid, but the county change requires notification.

If you move to a new address within the same county, you still need to notify the Secretary of State within 30 days. The SOS provides a change of address form on their website. There is no fee, but failing to update your address can cause problems if someone tries to verify your commission.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I keep my old commission after moving?

No. Notary commissions are state-specific. Once you establish residency in a new state, your old commission is no longer valid for performing notarial acts.

What if I move to a state with no notary requirements?

Most states have at least some requirements. Even states with minimal requirements typically need an application and a fee. Check the specific state’s rules.

How long does it take to get commissioned in a new state?

It depends on the state. Some process applications in a few weeks. Others take several months, especially if they require background checks or exams.

Can I notarize documents in my old state after moving?

Only if you still maintain residency there. If you have moved your primary residence, you cannot perform notarial acts under the old commission.

Do I need to return my old seal?

Some states require it. Check with the commissioning authority in your old state. Even if not required, destroying or defacing the seal is good practice to prevent misuse.

Does my experience transfer?

No state waives its commissioning requirements based on prior experience in another state. You must follow the new state’s process from start to finish.