When may an elected official take their oath of office?
Government Code §601.003(b) states: "A person elected to a regular term of office shall qualify and assume the duties of the office on, or as soon as possible after, Jan. 1 of the year following the person’s election." A person elected to an unexpired term takes the oath as soon as possible after election to the unexpired term. For more information, see our publication Oath & Bond Requirements for County Officials.