Notifications Guide
Learn how notification periods work and how to set them effectively to stay ahead of license expirations.
What is a Notification Period?
A notification period is the number of days before a license expires that you want to be warned. When a license enters this period, its status changes from "Active" to "Warning" with a yellow badge.
How Notification Periods Work
Active Status
The license has more days remaining than the notification period
Example: 45 days left with 30-day notification period = Active
Warning Status
The license has fewer days remaining than the notification period
Example: 20 days left with 30-day notification period = Warning
Expired Status
The license expiry date has passed
Example: Expiry date was yesterday = Expired
Recommended Notification Periods
Different types of documents require different lead times for renewal. Here are our recommendations:
SSL Certificates
Quick renewal, automated in many cases
Domain Registrations
Simple online renewal process
Insurance Policies
May require quotes and comparison shopping
Business Licenses
Government processing may take time
Driver's Licenses
DMV appointments can be hard to get
Professional Certifications
May require continuing education or exam prep
Passports
Processing times vary, some countries require 6+ months validity
Setting Custom Periods
Every license can have its own notification period. Consider these factors when setting yours:
Renewal Complexity
More complex renewals (paperwork, appointments, approvals) need longer notification periods
Processing Time
Government agencies and certification bodies can take weeks or months to process renewals
Preparation Required
Certifications requiring exams or continuing education need longer preparation time
Cost Implications
If renewal requires budgeting or approval, set a longer period to allow for financial planning
Travel Requirements
Many countries require passports to be valid for 6 months beyond your travel dates
Examples of Appropriate Notification Periods
| Scenario | Document Type | Notification Period |
|---|---|---|
| Website SSL with auto-renewal | SSL Certificate | 14-30 days |
| Website SSL manual renewal | SSL Certificate | 30-45 days |
| Personal car insurance | Insurance | 45-60 days |
| Professional liability insurance | Insurance | 60-90 days |
| State business license | Business License | 60-90 days |
| Driver's license (simple renewal) | Driver's License | 90 days |
| Driver's license (requires test) | Driver's License | 120-180 days |
| IT certification (requires exam) | Professional Certification | 120-180 days |
| Passport for frequent traveler | Passport | 180-270 days |
| Passport for occasional travel | Passport | 180 days |
Email Notifications (Coming Soon)
Future Enhancement
We're working on email notifications that will alert you when licenses enter the warning period. You'll be able to customize notification preferences and receive weekly summaries of expiring licenses.
Best Practices
- Better too early than too late: When in doubt, choose a longer notification period. You can always adjust it later.
- Consider worst-case scenarios: Account for delays, holidays, and backlogs when setting notification periods.
- Review periodically: After your first renewal cycle, adjust notification periods based on your actual experience.
- Document special requirements: Use the notes field to record renewal procedures, required documents, or specific timing requirements.
- Check your dashboard regularly: Even with good notification periods, make it a habit to review your dashboard weekly.
Need More Help?
For more information about specific document types and their typical renewal processes, visit the Document Types guide. If you have questions, check our FAQ page.