Illinois Notary Primer Practice Exam

What happens if an Illinois Notary Public fails to renew their commission before expiration?

1. They can continue notarizing until the renewal is processed

2. They must apply for a new commission

3. They can reinstate their commission with a late fee

4. They lose their records and must start over

The correct answer is: They must apply for a new commission

A Notary Public in Illinois must be mindful of the renewal process to continue performing their duties legally. If a notary fails to renew their commission before it expires, they cannot simply continue notarizing documents. Instead, they are required to apply for a completely new commission. This process involves submitting a new application, paying the associated fees, and fulfilling any necessary requirements as though they were applying for the position for the first time. This ensures that all notaries meet the current state requirements and regulations. Notarizing documents with an expired commission not only undermines the legal standing of the notarizations performed but can also lead to personal liability for the notary. Thus, the necessity to apply for a new commission emphasizes the importance of maintaining up-to-date credentials and adhering to state guidelines.