How often must a notary renew their commission in Ohio?

In Ohio, a notary public is required to renew their commission every five years. This renewal process ensures that notaries stay updated on any changes to laws and regulations governing notarial practices, which is essential for maintaining the integrity and effectiveness of their role. A five-year renewal cycle strikes a balance between allowing notaries sufficient time to perform their duties while also ensuring that their training, knowledge, and competency are periodically reassessed. This approach helps to uphold the standards of notarial services within the state and protects the interests of the public served by notaries. It is important for notaries to be aware of this timeline to maintain their ability to perform notarial acts legally and effectively.