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The National Notary Bulletin

Can I Transfer My Notary Commission If I Move Out Of State?

By NNA Staff on September 28, 2016

I am currently a California Notary, but I am going to be moving to Colorado. Do I need to turn in my California Notary journals and retake the exam in Colorado in order to continue being a Notary? Or is there a more convenient way to “transfer” my commission to Colorado? — D.N., California

Each state has its own application process, so Notary commissions, unfortunately, are not transferable between states.

There is a specific protocol you must follow when resigning your position in California. First, to officially resign your Notary commission, you will need to send a letter to the Secretary of State. Second, you will need to submit your Notary journals to your county recorder’s office within 30 days from your resignation. You must also destroy your seal stamp and/or seal embosser as they could otherwise be used to commit fraud.

Hotline answers are based on the laws in the state where the question originated and may not reflect the laws of other states. If in doubt, always refer to your own state statutes. – The Editors

Confronted with a tricky notarization? Unsure how to proceed? NNA members have unlimited access to our expertly trained NNA Hotline counselors to help you with all of your notarial questions. Call 1-888-876-0827, Monday through Friday, 6 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. PST; Saturday, 5 a.m. to 5 p.m. PST.

192 Comments

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Elizabeth bolint

08 Nov 2016

What if you own residential or commercial property in two states. And you spend a significant amount of time in both states. Can you be a notary on both states?

National Notary Association

09 Nov 2016

Hi Elizabeth. It depends on the laws of the states in question. Can you be more specific which ones, please?

Marta Iris Castro

09 Mar 2017

We are planning to move from Delaware to Florida. What will my process be to continue being a notary.

National Notary Association

10 Mar 2017

Hello. You will need to resign your Delaware commission and apply for a new commission in Florida.

Jas

16 Mar 2017

If you are a notary in California and decides to move to Nevada...do you must resign as notary in California even if you wont apply to become a notary in Nevada. Can you just let the current california notary commission expire and then turn in the journals to the county recorder in california?

National Notary Association

17 Mar 2017

Hello. California Government Code Section 8209 states that if a CA Notary resigns his or her commission or allows the commission to expire, the Notary must deliver all notarial journals, records, and papers to the county clerk's office where the Notary's oath of office is filed within 30 days. The Secretary of State's Notary Public Handbook, page 23, advises Notaries to send a letter of resignation to the Secretary of the State's office if the Notary wishes to resign his or her commission.

jasmine

02 May 2017

What if i am moving from california to texas and i have a resdential address for both states?

National Notary Association

04 May 2017

Hello. You cannot transfer a CA Notary commission to Texas. You would have to apply for a new Notary commission in Texas when you move.

Ann

13 Jul 2017

What if someone is a notary and they move to another state for a year and then move back to the state in which they are a notary and is a resident again. Is the notary still valid or will they need to reapply?

National Notary Association

14 Jul 2017

Hello Ann. To help us answer your question, can you specify which states you are referring to?

Sharon A Bersey

19 Jul 2017

I'm moving from Florida to Louisiana what do I need to do to transfer my Notary to Louisiana

National Notary Association

24 Jul 2017

Hello. A Florida commission is not transferable to another state. You would have to resign your Notary commission and apply for a new commission in Louisiana. Please be aware that Louisiana Notary qualifications, training, testing requirements and duties are significantly different than in Florida.

Marcy Montano

13 Aug 2017

Can i transfer my Connecticut notary to florida

National Notary Association

14 Aug 2017

Hello. No, Notary commissions are not transferable between states. If you are moving to Florida, you would need to meet that state's commissioning requirements first then apply for a new commission in Florida.

Dani

16 Aug 2017

I will be moving from Florida. I do not recall that I was required to turn in any documents - I have them all but I did allow my commission to expire some time ago and then recently reapplied per my employer. I will now be leaving the state, I may or may not apply in Indiana.

National Notary Association

16 Aug 2017

Hello Dani. If you're referring to your journal records, while Florida does not require a journal by law, if you keep one the Governor's office recommends retaining your completed journal for at least five years after the last date of entry.

Victoria

24 Aug 2017

If I was a Notary Public for the State of California, and I've recently moved to Arizona and want to reapply for an Arizona commission, can I still use the $5000 bond that I purchased in California, or do I have to repurchase another $5000 bond here in Arizona?

National Notary Association

25 Aug 2017

Hello. Arizona law requires the surety bond to be obtained from a state-licensed surety and the bond must be effective for four years, beginning exactly on the effective date of the Notary’s commission. The bond’s effective date may not overlap the expiration date of any previous bond, even by one day. Finally the bond must not be issued more than 60 days before or 30 days after its effective date (ARS 41-312[B] and 41-315[A] and [B]; AAC R2-12-1103[A]; RM).

Gail R

19 Sep 2017

Can I keep a notary license for more than one state at a time if you take and pass the state's law.

National Notary Association

20 Sep 2017

Hello. To help us answer your question, can you please tell us what state you are located in and what other state you are interested in obtaining a commission for?

Paul

09 Nov 2017

When changing from Virginia to North Carolina will I need to take your learning course and exam again?

National Notary Association

09 Nov 2017

Hello Paul. Can you please clarify which course you are referring to?

mhodang@yahoo.com

26 Dec 2017

i'm a notary in california, I have both house in california and florida. i live in florida for the summer june 1 - august 31, the rest of the year i live in california. can I do notary while i'm in florida for the summer. if so how can I do that, please give me some advice. Thank you very much!

National Notary Association

05 Jan 2018

Hello. You must be a legal resident of Florida in order to hold a Notary commission there. Part-time residents may not hold a Florida Notary commission.

Jax

08 Jan 2018

Can I hold a Notary Commission in both TX and NY if I reside in TX?

National Notary Association

09 Jan 2018

Hello. To hold a New York commission you must be a resident of New York or have an office or place of business within New York.

arnie

29 Jan 2018

If I am moving to AZ but don't want to do notary there and move back to CA can I still keep my commission or do I have to automatically cancel when I move out of state? if I do cancel when happens when I come back do I start process all over again?

National Notary Association

30 Jan 2018

Hello. You would have to resign your CA commission if you move out of state. Should you return to California, you would need to apply for a new commission.

mhaygoo1@hfhs.org

06 Apr 2018

I'm moving to Georgia soon and would like to continue being a signing agent. What do I need to do?

National Notary Association

06 Apr 2018

Hello. Only a lender or a licensed Georgia attorney may conduct settlements and disburse closing funds in the state; and the law further prohibits anyone other than the settlement agent for the entire transaction from overseeing the closing session (OCGA 44-14-13[10]).

MARIA KRYEZIU

13 Apr 2018

I AM CERTIFIED TO NOTARIZE DOCUMENTS IN NEW YORK. WHAT IS REQUIRED TO TRANSFER TO NEW JERSEY?

National Notary Association

13 Apr 2018

Hello. Notary commissions are not transferable between states. If you wish to obtain a New Jersey commission, you will have to check if you qualify for a Notary commission in that state and submit an application for a new commission there.

Darlene

06 May 2018

My Notary Public commission expired in Maryland. I am re-applying in the state of Florida, do I have to resign as Notary Public in Maryland?, even though it expired in 2018?

National Notary Association

07 May 2018

Hello. If your Maryland commission has already expired and you have chosen not to renew, you do not need to take additional steps to resign the commission. You will need to keep your registry (Notary journal) for at least five years.

Chrysty Carroll

07 May 2018

I am a notary in Georgia but just recently moved to Florida and would like to be a notary here. Am I able to transfer? If not, do I just apply as a "new" notary? Thank you.

National Notary Association

07 May 2018

Hello. No, Notary commissions are not transferable between states. You would need to resign your Georgia commission and apply for a new commission in Florida.

Priscilla Dewaele

16 Jun 2018

Can I have two completely different commission in two different states? Ex California and Illinois

National Notary Association

18 Jun 2018

Hello Priscilla. The answer to your question depends on what two states are involved. However, in the example you provided, it is not possible to hold simultaneous commissions in California and Illinois because each state's residency requirements for a commission are incompatible. (Illinois requires Notaries to live in the state or a bordering state, and California does not permit nonresidents to apply for CA commissions.)

Miranda

19 Jul 2018

I am a notary in texas and moved to CO for a couple years and am now back in Texas and my notary in Texas will not expire until 2020 is it still valid?

National Notary Association

24 Jul 2018

Hello. No, you will need to apply for a new Texas Notary commission, since out of state residents may not serve as Texas Notaries. Notaries who move their residence from Texas automatically vacate the office (GC 406.020; 1 TAC 87.50[c]).

Roman

26 Jul 2018

Hi, I have notary commission from Kings County (Brooklyn), New York and live in Brooklyn, NY. But, I work in New York city. I'm planing to move to Pennsylvanian soon, but will continue to work in New York city. Can I keep my New York notary commission?

National Notary Association

27 Jul 2018

Hello. A Notary resident of New York State who moves out of state but still maintains a place of business in the state may remain a Notary; otherwise, the office of Notary is thereby vacated (EL 130).

Dawn

13 Aug 2018

I live in GA but work in Florida (I live on the state line) Can I get my notary in Fla?

National Notary Association

15 Aug 2018

Hello. No, only Florida residents may apply for a Florida Notary commission.

Liliana

05 Sep 2018

I will be living in 2 different states 6 months at a time, can I apply for a second Notary commision so I can hold it in both states?

National Notary Association

05 Sep 2018

Hello. To help us answer your question can you please tell us what two states you will be residing in?

Liliana Rust

07 Sep 2018

Indiana and Arizona

National Notary Association

07 Sep 2018

Hello. No, Indiana requires Notaries to be full-time, permanent legal residents. If at any time an Indiana Notary ceases to be a full-time resident of the state of Indiana, their commission becomes invalid and must be relinquished. An Indiana notary cannot reside or claim primary residency anywhere outside of this state. Arizona requires a Notary to either be a registered voter in Arizona or list Arizona as the state of permanent residence for income tax purposes. You would have to give up your commission in whatever state you do not meet the permanent residence requirements in.

Mel

07 Sep 2018

I am a CO notary and will be moving to WA, but will still be employed by my same company based in CO (I will be working remotely). Can I maintain my CO notary?

National Notary Association

07 Sep 2018

Hello. A Colorado Notary must be a permanent resident of the state or have a place of employment in the state. We would recommend contacting the Colorado Secretary of State's Notary program at 1-303-894-2200 to ask them if remote employment with a Colorado business will allow you to meet this requirement.

NORA LAJQI

18 Sep 2018

I live and do business in NYS. I will be moving right over state border to CT, can i keep my NYS notary since I will continur business in NYS?

National Notary Association

18 Sep 2018

Hello. A New York Notary who moves out of state but still maintains a place of business in New York may remain a Notary; otherwise your commission is vacated (EL 130). You will need to file a change of address form with the Department of State's Division of Licensing Services.

Roberto

27 Sep 2018

Hello. I hold a notary commission in California and will be moving to Nevada for a year and be traveling back and forth after. Is it possible to hold a commission in California and acquire a new commission in Nevada for the time I’m in Nevada? In other words can I hold to commissions at the same time from two states?

National Notary Association

28 Sep 2018

Hello. It will not be possible for you to hold a CA Notary commission if you move to Nevada. California does not permit out-of-state residents to hold CA Notary commissions.

Tay

08 Nov 2018

Can I hold notary commissions in both California and Colorado if I have residences & employment in states?

National Notary Association

08 Nov 2018

Hello. Colorado applicants must either be a resident or have a place of employment in the state (CRS 24-21-521[3]). California applicants must be a legal resident of California (GC 8201).

Roberto Rivera

11 Dec 2018

I'm a Notary in the state of California, can I obtain a Notary commission in Nevada whilst maintaining the Notary commission in California?

National Notary Association

13 Dec 2018

Hello. To be eligible for a Nevada commission, you would need to maintain or be employed at a licensed place of business in Nevada (NRS 240.015).

Ashley

08 Jan 2019

If I am a notary in New York and have a job in New York and a home in New York and am buying a condo in Florida and live in New York for six months and Florida for six months, can I be a notary in both states? I need a notary to work.

National Notary Association

11 Jan 2019

Hello. Yes, it is possible. In order to hold a New York commission, you must either be a resident or have an office or place of business in the state. To hold a commission in Florida, you must be a legal resident of Florida. This website has additional information on the qualifications for Florida residency: https://www.stateofflorida.com/residency.aspx

Kristlee Harvey

19 Feb 2019

Hello! I'm a notary from NJ that has recently moved to TN. What is the process of replacing or renewing my license. I don't assume I can keep my NJ one. I had to ask.

National Notary Association

20 Feb 2019

Hello. You will need to apply for a new Notary commission in Tennessee. You will need to either obtain an application form from your local county clerk's office or you can contact the NNA for assistance in applying for a commission at 1-800-876-6827.

Aydil M Torres

21 Feb 2019

I am a freelance court reporter in NY, and so have my notary strictly to swear in witnesses. I am planning on moving to Florida and working as a freelance stenographer there. I can at times take telephonic depositions with and for my NY clients. Can I keep my NY notary and do I have to retake the test in Florida?

National Notary Association

22 Feb 2019

Hello. In order to hold a NY Notary commission, you must either be a resident of New York or have a place of business in the state. If you are moving out of state and will no longer be working in New York, you will need to resign your NY commission and apply for a new Notary commission in Florida.

Suzanne

05 Apr 2019

I’m a notary in SC but have moved to NC. What do I need to do to become a notary in NC?

National Notary Association

08 Apr 2019

Hello. Here are links to information and a video on becoming a North Carolina Notary: https://www.nationalnotary.org/north-carolina https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3ZkRwSO_aJg

Yasmin

02 Jul 2019

I hold a notary in Florida and will be moving to South Carolina. Do I need to re-do the course and exam from scratch or can I transfer my notary from one state to another?

National Notary Association

03 Jul 2019

Hello. Notary commissions are not transferable between states. You would have to apply for a new Notary commission after you move to South Carolina.

Kristi

25 Sep 2019

I hold a Minnesota notary currently. I live in Iowa work in Minnesota. I am changing jobs and going to work in Iowa, but my current company would still like me to notarize documents for them. If I surrender my Minnesota notary and get an Iowa one will I still be able to notarize the Minnesota documents.

National Notary Association

27 Sep 2019

Hello. An Iowa Notary commission would only authorize you to perform notarizations within the borders of Iowa. You would not be able to notarize when located in Minnesota.

Lindsay

09 Oct 2019

I am a notary in Massachusetts for work related services only. I am moving to New Hampshire and staying at my job in MA (not a far drive). I will not be notarizing anything in NH, or any state other than MA. Do I need to take any action?

National Notary Association

10 Oct 2019

“Within 10 days after the change of a notary public’s name, residence, business address or mailing address, the notary public shall send to the state secretary a signed notice of the change, providing both the old and new information” (GL 222, Sec. 25). The Public Records Division at 617-727-2836 can answer questions about name and address changes, and provide up-to-date contact information for any Notary. A Notary with a name change may continue to notarize with the former name until commission expiration. A form to register a change of address or name may be obtained online at www.sec.state.ma.us.

Jody M Brown

22 Oct 2019

I live in Florida and have a notary in Florida. I will be going to Georgia to help take care of family. Can I hold a notary in Florida and in Georgia? I will be going back and forth to take care of family and I have a business that I assist here in Florida as a notary, so I do not want to give up my Florida notary. So I would like to also get one in Georgia, is that an option?

National Notary Association

24 Oct 2019

Hello. In order to be eligible for a Georgia Notary commission, you would need to be regularly employed or carrying out a business or profession in the Georgia county in which application is made (OCGA 45-17-2).

Michele Polanis

19 Dec 2019

I recently moved to NY from PA. I am working remotely for my PA employer. Can I keep my PA notary or do I need to get a NY notary

National Notary Association

20 Dec 2019

Hello. You will need to file a change of address form with the PA Department of State within 30 days of your move. If you are still employed by an office in Pennsylvania, you may still be eligible to continue as a PA Notary. However, please be aware that if you continue as a PA Notary, you may still only perform notarizations within the borders of Pennsylvania. In order to perform notarizations in NY state, you will need to apply for a NY Notary commission.

Nancy W

10 Jan 2020

Hello! I currently live in CA and was going to start the process to apply, however I am moving to Nevada in June - would it be best to just wait until I move to Nevada to become a notary there?

National Notary Association

10 Jan 2020

Hello. Yes, as you would need to resign your CA commission anyway when you move out of state.

Jennifer Gooch

26 Feb 2020

Hi. I am a NC notary and am moving just out of state to VA. I will continue to work for the company that I notarize documents for in NC and will commute there from VA..it's literally just over the line. Do I transfer from NC notary to a company notary?

National Notary Association

27 Feb 2020

Hello. A person who lives outside of NC but still has a place of business within the state may still be eligible for a NC Notary commission. “Within 45 days after the change of a notary’s residence, business, or any mailing address or telephone number, the notary shall send to the Secretary by fax, email, or certified mail, return receipt requested, a signed notice of the change, giving both old and new addresses or telephone numbers” (GS 10B-50). You should contact the Secretary of State's office at 1-919-807-2219 to ask if moving out of state will require you to apply for a new commission and seal.

elaineiseley@me.com

13 Apr 2020

I live in DC and work in Virginia and DC, can I be a notary in both DC and Virginia

National Notary Association

15 Apr 2020

Hello. Yes, provided you meet all other qualifications for a Notary commission in both states.

Samantha Hale

20 May 2020

trying to find out what to do to transfer from the state of Texas to Louisiana

National Notary Association

21 May 2020

Hello. A Texas Notary commission is not transferable to Louisiana. You would need to resign your Texas commission and apply for a new commission in Louisiana if you are relocating. Please be aware that due to Louisiana's civil law code, Notaries in Louisiana have significantly different duties, training and testing requirements than Notaries in other states.

Devyn DePonte

23 Jun 2020

Hi I’m currently a notary public in CA and I recently moved to MA am I able to have a notary in both of those states. Or would I have to turn in my CA notary to the secretary of the state.

National Notary Association

26 Jun 2020

Hello. You cannot continue to serve as a CA Notary if you move out of the state. You will need to resign your California commission and apply for a new commission in Massachusetts.

Tracey

29 Jun 2020

I currently am a ny notary, but will be working in ny and ct. Can I apply for a ct notary license and be a ny notary as well?

National Notary Association

30 Jun 2020

Hello. If you do not reside in Connecticut or have your principle place of business there, you will not be eligible for a CT Notary commission.

Amanda Goldman

12 Jul 2020

I will be moving from Alabama to Arkansas. Can I transfer my notary commission to Arkansas? Also, will my E&O insurance still be good or do I need to reapply for new insurance?

National Notary Association

13 Jul 2020

Hello. Notary commissions are not transferable between states, and Alabama does not permit individuals living outside the state to hold an Alabama commission. You would need to resign your Alabama commission and apply for a new Notary commission in Arkansas. You will need to contact your E&O provider to ask about details of your policy coverage if you move to a different state and need to apply for a new commission. If you obtained your policy through the NNA, please call 1-800-876-6827 to ask for assistance.

Bri

26 Jul 2020

If I have a notary license in Arkansas, will I be able to also be able to use it in Tennessee. Or would I have to reapply for one in TN also?

National Notary Association

28 Jul 2020

Hello. You cannot use an Arkansas Notary commission to notarize in Tennessee. You would have to apply for a separate TN Notary commission to notarize in Tennessee.

diame

04 Aug 2020

i am a notary in my for 41 years. i am moving to florida next year. if i hate it i will move back to new york if i retire my ny notary can.i get it back if i move back without taking the test again

National Notary Association

05 Aug 2020

Hello. No, you would need to apply for a new Notary commission if you choose to move back to New York.

GG

05 Sep 2020

I am a NSA/ RON in Florida looking to move to WA state. Will I need a new RON and NOtary signing agent commission to use my online platform?

National Notary Association

08 Sep 2020

Hello. If you move to Washington, you will no longer be able to perform RONs as a Florida Notary because you will need to resign your Florida commission when you move. You would need to apply for a new Notary commission and new authorization to perform RONs from the state of Washington when you relocate. For more information, please see here: https://www.nationalnotary.org/knowledge-center/remote-online-notary/how-to-become-a-remote-online-notary/washington

k

23 Sep 2020

I'm moving from MD to DE but maintaining my working position in MD where I use my notary stamp. Do I need to resign my position?

National Notary Association

02 Oct 2020

Hello. Maryland Notaries must either live or have a place of business in the state to hold a commission. If you wish to maintain your MD commission, you will need to file a change of address at https://www.egov.maryland.gov/sos/notary/#/hom within 30 days of the change.

Shamel

07 Oct 2020

Since GA is. An attorney state, am I willing to hold commissions in another state that’s close by , to create more opportunities. For example Alabama

National Notary Association

08 Oct 2020

Hello. You would have to check the eligibility requirements for a Notary commission in any other state you wish to apply in. Some states (including Alabama) do not allow out-of-state residents to hold Notary commissions: "A person who resides in another state, but who works in Alabama, cannot be appointed and commissioned as a notary public in this state” (Ala. Atty. Gen. Opinion 95-00289 of August 16, 1995).

A.B.

09 Oct 2020

I work in California and Notarize in California... I will be moving to Nevada, but will be continuing to work in California. Although my personal residence has changed, my work will still be in California. Do I need to relinquish my Seal and Book due to this move?

National Notary Association

12 Oct 2020

Hello. Only CA residents may hold a CA Notary commission. You will need to resign your CA commission when you move to Nevada.

Cindy Niemiec

06 Nov 2020

If I get my license in Ohio, can I keep it if I move across the river to Kentucky?

National Notary Association

10 Nov 2020

Hello. In order to hold an Ohio commission while living outside the state, you must be an attorney admitted to practice law in Ohio who has a primary place of business or practice in the state (ORC 147.01[B]).

Kristina

09 Dec 2020

I have a NYS Notary License now my listed address is the companies address in NY. Can I keep my license if I move to SC but continue to work for the company in NY but only remotely?

National Notary Association

10 Dec 2020

A Notary resident of New York State who moves out of state but still maintains a place of business in the state may remain a Notary; otherwise, the office of Notary is thereby vacated (EL 130). However, please note that if you keep your New York Notary license, you may still only perform notarizations while physically located within the state of New York.

V. Fuentes

09 Jan 2021

Hello - I am a NY Notary and I’m looking to move to Pennsylvania. Can I keep my notary license for NY even if I am a resident of Pennsylvania? I still will be traveling back and forth from NY to PA weekly.

National Notary Association

21 Jan 2021

mary

15 Jan 2021

is it possible for me to be a notary in both MI and OH? or do I have to retake the class when I move from ohio to michigan

National Notary Association

21 Jan 2021

Hello. Only residents of Ohio or a resident of another state who is an attorney admitted to the practice of law in Ohio and who has a principal place of business or a primary practice in Ohio may qualify for an Ohio Notary commission (ORC 147.01[B]). If you do not meet these requirements you will have to resign your Ohio commission when you move and apply for a new Notary commission in Michigan.

Lujuana Roberts

28 Jan 2021

If I just became a CA notary which included training & an exam. If I move to Oregon, would I still need to take their classes & exam again?

National Notary Association

29 Jan 2021

Hello. If you move out of California, you will need to resign your CA commission and apply for a new Notary commission in the state you relocate to. You will be required to follow all requirements of your new state, including classes and testing if required.

Tracye Bowins

31 Jan 2021

If I am in the same state (Jefferson County, AL), but move to another county (Shelby County, AL) 27 miles away, do I need to renew my license in my new county?

National Notary Association

01 Feb 2021

Hello. In Alabama, state-at-large Notaries do not vacate their offices upon moving from their counties, however, a spokesperson for the Secretary of State’s office advised that “it may be that a better practice for a notary for the state at large would be to get a new commission in his/her county of residence if the notary moves from the county where the commission was initially obtained.”

Aja

05 Feb 2021

Hello, thank you for your time. I currently reside and was recently commissioned in Georgia; however, I will be relocating back to Alabama in a couple months. While Alabama doesn't allow non-residents to be commissioned in Alabama, am I able to maintain and do notary work in Georgia and obtain my commission in Alabama once I relocate there? I want to have dual commission and do notary services in both states, if possible.

National Notary Association

05 Feb 2021

Hello. Georgia Notaries ceasing to reside or work in the state are subject to having their commission revoked by the superior court clerk (OCGA 45-17-15[a]).

Eric

11 Feb 2021

I am currently an Arizona notary. I’m planning to move to California and want to get a notary commission there. Can I start the process of becoming a California notary before physically moving to California?

National Notary Association

12 Feb 2021

Hello. No, because you must be a legal resident of California in order to be eligible for a CA Notary commission.

Nicola Ann Quinn

17 Feb 2021

Can I have a be a notary of multiple states such as CA, Nevada and Texas

National Notary Association

25 Feb 2021

Hello. To help us answer your question, can you please tell us what state you currently live in?

Beth Cooper

03 Mar 2021

I am moving to Florida from South Carolina, do I have to apply and go through classes to get a FL notary?

National Notary Association

03 Mar 2021

Hello. Only legal residents of Florida may hold a FL commission. When you move, you will need to resign your Florida commission. If you wish to perform notarizations in South Carolina, you will need to apply for a new SC commission.

Kathy

08 Mar 2021

Hello, I plan to live in both Michigan and Texas. Would I be able to have two notary commissions at the same time in both states?! Thanks!

National Notary Association

09 Mar 2021

Hello. To qualify for a Texas commission, you must be a resident of Texas. In Michigan, you may apply for a commission if you are a Michigan resident or maintain a place of business in the state.

Laura

09 Mar 2021

Hi. I am currently a Florida notary. I want to visit a home I own in Tennessee. I would like to work while I am there. While Florida requires you to be a full-time resident to maintain the license, Tennesse says I must be a resident or have a principal place of business in the county from which I was elected. So my question is if I stay as a full-time resident in Florida and maintain a principal place of business in Tennessee can I perform notarizations in both states? Thanks.

National Notary Association

10 Mar 2021

Hello. Persons who maintain a principal place of business in Tennessee may apply for a TN Notary commission (TCA 8-16-101[a] and 8-18-101). However, to perform notarizations in Tennessee, you would need to apply for a new Tennessee Notary commission. You may not use your Florida Notary commission to perform notarizations in Tennessee.

AnnMary Hallen

15 Mar 2021

Can a NY notary who works in NY but lives in PA be commissioned in both states?

National Notary Association

15 Mar 2021

Hello. Persons can apply for a NY Notary commission if they have an office or place of business within the state and meet all other eligibility requirements.

John Hunt

29 Apr 2021

Hi,I am a New York notary moved to nevada,can I transfer my commission online and what is the process.

National Notary Association

03 May 2021

Hello. Notary commissions are not transferable between states. You would need to resign your New York commission and apply for a new Nevada Notary commission after you move.

Faye Taylor

04 Jun 2021

Hi I am a notary in NC and plan to move to Massachusetts. Will I need to get a new commission in Mass?

National Notary Association

10 Jun 2021

Hello. Yes, you would need to apply for a Massachusetts Notary commission in order to perform notarizations in that state.

876notary@gmail.com

05 Jun 2021

I live in both Florida and Georgia. Is there a way to maintain commissions in both states?

National Notary Association

07 Jun 2021

Hello. An applicant for a Georgia commission must be a legal resident of the Georgia county in which the application is made or, if living out of state, be a resident of a state bordering Georgia and regularly employed or carrying out a business or profession in the Georgia county in which application is made (OCGA 45-17-2). An applicant for a Florida commission must: (a) be at least 18 years old, (b) be a legal resident of Florida and (c) if ever convicted of a felony, have had civil rights restored.

David

24 Jun 2021

Hello, I am currently commissioned in Colorado and jus removed to Florida, is there anything I need to do specifically to get commissioned in Florida?

National Notary Association

01 Jul 2021

Please see here for Florida information: https://www.nationalnotary.org/florida/how-to-become-florida-notary

Debra Blanco

30 Jun 2021

I am a NY Notary and live in NY. I now work in CT can I keep my NY Notary status and also become a CT Notary for my job?

National Notary Association

01 Jul 2021

Hello. You may apply for a CT Notary commission if you reside or have a principal place of business in Connecticut (CGS 3-94b[b]). You may continue to serve as a NY Notary, but if you have changed the address on your NY Notary commission, you will need to file a change notice with the NY Department of State.

Karen Carpenter

06 Jul 2021

My place of business is in Florida and I live in Alabama. May I be commissioned in Florida, even though I live in Alabama?

National Notary Association

21 Jul 2021

Hello. No, only legal residents of Florida may apply for a Florida Notary commission.

Stacia

27 Jul 2021

I'm a resident of TN and working in NC can I be commissioned in both? if Commissioned in TN do I have to resign and then reapply in NC or do I have to take the whole course work over again?

National Notary Association

13 Aug 2021

Hello. There is nothing preventing you from serving as a Notary in both TN and NC provided you meet all commission applications requirements for both states. You are not required to resign your TN Notary commission in order to apply for a NC Notary commission. However, you would need to take the mandatory course and exam if you wish to apply for a North Carolina commission.

Kaitlyn

09 Aug 2021

This might be a redundant question based off of previous comments but, If I hold a commission in New Jersey and it does not expire for another five years, and I just recently moved to Virginia, would I have to resign my NJ commission and apply for the Virginia one. If so, would I need a new seal and stamp? Thank you !

National Notary Association

12 Aug 2021

Hello. Only residents of states bordering New Jersey may hold a NJ Notary commission, and only if they have a place of business within the state of NJ (NJSA 52:7-13). You will need to resign your NJ commission and apply for a new commission in Virginia if you wish to continue as a Notary, and you will need a new official seal if you become a VA Notary.

crystal beach

19 Aug 2021

I have a question for a person in our office, Her notary is valid in Illinois. She is moving to Indiana. Will she have to get a new notary with Indiana?

National Notary Association

26 Aug 2021

Hello. If the person wishes to perform notarizations in Indiana, she will need to apply for an Indiana Notary commission. The person will need to resign their current Illinois commission. Unless the person maintains a principal place of business or employment in Illinois, they cannot apply for a new Illinois Notary commission.

Jamie E Switras

01 Sep 2021

I am a notary in WA Sate and will be moving to Idaho; however, I will be keeping the same job and working remotely and will still have need to notarize applications going to WA State L&I. Not being a WA resident, am I aloud to do this?

National Notary Association

10 Sep 2021

Hello. To hold a Washington Notary commission, a person must e a resident of or have a place of employment or practice in the state (RCW 42.45.200[2]). Notaries who move must notify the department on forms prescribed by the department (WAC 308-30-250[1]). The name as shown on the certificate of appointment, along with date of birth, and previous and new addresses, must be included (website, “How to Change Your Name or Address”). Notification may also be made online through SecureAccess Washington or by email.

Hash Alikozay

06 Sep 2021

Hello. I recently moved from California to Texas. I cannot get my Texas ID until the end of October (can't get an appointment from DMV). Can I still apply to be a Texas notary without having my Texas ID? What constitutes as a residence of an 'xyz' state? Note: I'm living in Texas now and have a permanent address if that helps.

National Notary Association

29 Sep 2021

Hello. Can you please clarify what you mean by an 'xyz' state?

Sue Matthews

15 Sep 2021

I am moving from Virginia to North Carolina...Can I apply to transfer my notary or do I need to apply for a new one in NC? Thank you for any help with this :) Sue

National Notary Association

15 Sep 2021

Hello. Notary commissions are not transferable. You would need to apply for a new North Carolina Notary commission in order to perform notarizations in NC.

Erica

24 Oct 2021

I will be moving from Pennsylvania to California for work. I will still have a home in Pennsylvania after I relocate to California. Will I need to resign my Pennsylvania commission? It will take me over a year to apply for the California commission as it states to be a resident in California you need to be living there 366 days. I would like to still have my PA commission when I come back home.

National Notary Association

29 Oct 2021

Hello. A PA Notary must be a resident of or have a place of employment or practice in the Commonwealth (57 Pa.C.S. 321[a]). If you plan to transfer your legal residence to California in order to obtain a CA commission, you will need to resign your PA commission unless you maintain a place of employment or practice in Pennsylvania.

Brendon Grey

31 Oct 2021

If I live in and commissioned in Nevada and want to keep Nevada and be a notary in California can I do that? Since it’s a bordering state?

National Notary Association

04 Nov 2021

Hello. No, only legal residents of California are eligible to apply for a CA Notary commission.

Chivone Alston

04 Nov 2021

Ok so I am scheduled to take the notary exam in NY but I am moving to GA in a couple of months. Should I take the exam in NY still? Will I be able to transfer it once I make it to GA?

National Notary Association

04 Nov 2021

Hello. Notary commissions are not transferable between states. If you wish to serve as a Notary in Georgia, you will have to apply for a new GA commission after you move.

Ashley

22 Nov 2021

Hello, I don't think anyone has asked yet... but will I be able to maintain my Nevada notary commission if I move and get commissioned in the state of Texas? Thank you!

National Notary Association

01 Dec 2021

Hello. No, only Nevada residents or residents of states bordering Nevada who work in Nevada may hold a NV Notary commission.

Lisa Allen

29 Nov 2021

Hello, I am moving across the border from Virginia to North Carolina. I am commissioned in Virginia and would like to continue to do signings in Virginia only after my move. Is this possible in any circumstance?

National Notary Association

07 Dec 2021

Hello. Only if you continue to be regularly employed within the state of Virginia. A nonresident notary who ceases to be regularly employed in Virginia must surrender his or her commission (COV 47.1-22[C] and [D]).

Alison Wall

20 Dec 2021

I am commissioned in WA as a notary. Can I work in OR too? Do I need to take an OR test? Or can I just transfer my commission and how do I do that

National Notary Association

28 Dec 2021

Hello. No, a Washington Notary commission does not authorize you to perform notarizations in Oregon, and you may not transfer your WA commission to another state. You may apply for an Oregon Notary commission if you have a place of employment or practice in Oregon and meet all other OR requirements for a commission.

Jennifer Pugh

30 Dec 2021

I work in pennsylvania and will be moving to new jersey do i need a new jersey notary

National Notary Association

05 Jan 2022

Hello. Yes, if you wish to perform notarizations in New Jersey, you will need to apply for a NJ Notary commission.

Jenn B

29 Apr 2022

I am presently a notary public for Massachusetts, but have moved to New Jersey and I want to become a notary public for New Jersey. Do I need to resign as a notary public for Massachusetts before I can apply to become a notary public for New Jersey?

National Notary Association

18 May 2022

Hello. To be eligible for a Massachusetts Notary commission, you must reside legally or conduct business on a regular basis within Massachusetts. If you no longer meet either of these requirements, you will need to resign your MA commission.

Madina M

12 Aug 2022

Hello, I just moved my residence from NYS to NJ but planning to continue to work in NYC. I can still keep my notary public license correct? Thank you in advance

National Notary Association

19 Aug 2022

An applicant for a commission as a New York Notary Public must be a resident of New York State or have an office or place of business in the state. A Notary resident of New York State who moves out of state but still maintains a place of business in the state may remain a Notary; otherwise, the office of Notary is thereby vacated (EL 130). A Notary nonresident who ceases to have an office or place of business in New York State thereby vacates the office of Notary.

Wesleah Scott

17 Aug 2022

If I am understanding correctly, I can keep my commission in California and allow it to expire while residing in Colorado as a New Notary Public. Once my commission for California has expired, I must turn in my journals within 30 days to the county clerk office?

National Notary Association

19 Aug 2022

Hello. You may not continue to hold a California Notary commission if you move out of the state. “If you want to resign your commission, send a letter of resignation to the Secretary of State’s office; within 30 days deliver all of your notarial journals, records, and papers to the county clerk in which your current oath of office is on file; and destroy the seal” (NPH; see also GC 8209).

RReyes

06 Sep 2022

I live and work remotely in Pennsylvania. I’m looking to keep my employment in PA and live in Florida for a few years then move back to Pennsylvania. My commission for PA expired in 2018. I’m now looking to become a ron in both PA and Florida. Is this possible?

National Notary Association

07 Sep 2022

Hello. You would need to hold a current Notary commission in both states and meet all other eligibility requirements in order to perform remote online notarizations as you describe in PA and FL. You would only be eligible to apply for a new PA commission if you currently have a place of employment or practice in Pennsylvania (57 Pa.C.S. 321[a]).

Shannon Banks

15 Sep 2022

I am a notary in IL can I be a Notary in Alabama if I am moving there in a few months?

National Notary Association

15 Sep 2022

Hello. Alabama’s county probate judges appoint and commission the state’s Notaries. You would need to contact the office of the probate judge in the county you are moving to in order to find out if you are eligible for a Notary commission there.

Nick Dakins

28 Nov 2022

If I move to New Mexico, will I need to resign in Indiana?

National Notary Association

30 Nov 2022

Hello. To hold an Indiana Notary commission you must be a resident of Indiana or primarily employed in Indiana. If you no longer meet those requirements, you will need to resign your commission.

Araceli Moya

04 Dec 2022

Hello I am a Notary Public in South Dakota can i do a notarization in Pennsylvania?

National Notary Association

06 Dec 2022

Hello. No, South Dakota Notaries may only perform notarizations within the borders of South Dakota (SDCL 18-1-1).

Mariah K

05 Dec 2022

My WA commission expires 10/23 but I moved to UT and just became a UT resident. Am I able to keep my E&O insurance and bond since those do not expire until late 2023 as well? Or do I need to get new insurance and bond as well commission in UT?

National Notary Association

06 Dec 2022

Hello. Utah Notaries are required to have a $5,000 surety bond that covers the term of their commission. Applicants must sign the oath of office and have their signature notarized prior to submitting the completed application and bond to the Lieutenant Governor online (UCA 46-1-4; website, “Process and Qualifications”). As you obtained your previous bond prior to obtaining a Utah Notary commission, it is likely you would need to obtain a new bond when applying for a commission in Utah. Regarding your bond E&O policy, you should contact your insurance and bond provider to ask if you would need to obtain a new policy when you obtain a Utah commission and for instructions about obtaining a surety bond that meets Utah's requirements.

Susan Dolan

09 Dec 2022

My business I work for is in MD but I work remotely in NC. Can I use my NC notary for documents for my company in MD? I allowed my MD to expire.

National Notary Association

12 Dec 2022

Hello. No, you may not use a North Carolina commission to perform notarizations when you are physically located in Maryland.

Jassmin

02 Jan 2023

I live in Texas and Im looking to become a Notary Signing Agent. However, by the end of the year I will be moving to Ohio for 2 years and then come back to Texas. What direction should I go in when it comes to getting my NSA? Get them in both states?

National Notary Association

11 Jan 2023

Hello. Currently, there are no statutes, regulations or rules expressly governing, prohibiting or restricting the operation of Notary Signing Agents within the state of Ohio.

Ramona

03 Jan 2023

I am a newly assigned notary in the state of Florida. However, due to military orders, I will be moving out of state Nov 2023. I understand that if I do not reside in Florida, I will have to renounce my notary rights and possibly recommission to my new state. However, is there a way that I can keep my notary certification in FL since it is my Home State, to which I will be returning after my assignment is over?

National Notary Association

10 Jan 2023

Hello. We're sorry, but no. A Florida Notary “who does not maintain legal residence in this state during the entire term of appointment” must resign his or her commission in a signed letter to the Governor (FS 117.01[5][b]).

Becky B.

18 Jan 2023

I am moving to a different county than my notary was obtained. Do I need to transfer from my current county to my new county?

National Notary Association

23 Jan 2023

Hello. To help us answer your question, can you please tell us what state you are commissioned in?

Becky Bezich

23 Jan 2023

I am in Ohio, moving to a different county from which my notary was obtained. Do I need to change my notary county? Thank you.

National Notary Association

24 Jan 2023

Hello. Within 30 days, a name or address change must be reported to the Secretary of State’s office, using an “Application for Amendment of Notary Public Information” (ORC 147.05[B]). Notaries must use the Secretary of State’s online filing system to report changes to their commission (website, “File Notary Commission Applications and Updates”). There is a fee of $2.00 for filing a name change using the online filing system, for which the applicant will receive a revised commission with the new name. There is no fee to file a change of address or resignation of commission. Once you receive the revised commission, it must be recorded at the county clerk of the courts of common pleas office (ORC 147.05[B]).

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