How to Get a California Notary Public License

In California, you must complete the licensing process before becoming a notary public according to Government Code. Notary publics are commissioned by the California Secretary of State and act as impartial witnesses in the signing of legal documents such as wills, property deeds, marriage licenses and adoption papers.

Learn how to get your California notary public license with this complete guide.

How to Get a Notary Public License in California

How Do I Become a Notary Public in California?

To become a licensed notary in California, follow these eight steps.

Step 1: Verify your eligibility

You must meet the following requirements set in place by the Secretary of State to be eligible for a notary public license in California:

Be at least 18 years old
Be a legal resident of California
Have a clear background check

Step 2: Complete education

To become a licensed notary in California, you must complete a six-hour course of study. Once you finish the course, you’ll receive a Proof of Completion certificate which is valid for two years.

Step 3: Pass the notary public exam

After receiving your Proof of Completion certificate, take the notary public exam. Register through CPS HR Consulting and bring the following items with you to the exam:

A current photo ID issued by the Department of Motor Vehicles
Your completed notary public application form with a 2” x 2” color passport photo of yourself
Your registration confirmation letter
The $40 exam and application fee made payable to the Secretary of State in the form of a check or money order

You need a score of at least 70 to pass the exam and will receive your results within 15 business days. If you fail the exam, you can retake it in the next calendar month.

Step 4: Submit fingerprints

Within one year of your exam date, get fingerprinted through the Department of Justice (DOJ) Live Scan program. Bring your photo ID and a completed Request For Live Scan Service form to the site.

The DOJ will transmit your background check information electronically to the Secretary of State.

Step 5: Receive your commission packet

Once your application is approved, you will receive a commission packet in the mail including the following:

Filing instructions
A public commission certificate
Two Notary Public Oath and Certificate of Filing forms
A Certificate of Authorization to Manufacture Notary Public Seals
A list of Authorized Manufacturers of Notary Public Seals

Step 6: Purchase a $15,000 surety bond

The California Secretary of State requires all notary public licensees to purchase a $15,000 surety bond to ensure ethical notary business practices. Buy your California notary bond instantly online for just $50.

For an additional premium, you can purchase errors and omission (E&O) insurance. This is optional, but recommended, to protect yourself from legal damages due to common notarization errors such as missing seals, dates or signatures.

Be sure to file your notary bond with the local county clerk’s office for your business.

Step 7: Purchase supplies

Once you receive your official commission, purchase your notary seal and sequential journal.

Buy your journal from any supply store as long at it meets the government standards
Get your seal from an authorized manufacturer on the list provided in your commission packet

For more information on seal requirements, refer to the Notary Public Handbook.

Step 8: File your oath and bond

Within 30 days of receiving your commission, file your surety bond and oath of office with the county clerk’s office. To expedite the process, submit these documents in person.

How Do I Get Reappointed as a California Notary Public?

California notary publics hold their position for four-year terms. Begin the renewal process about six months before your current commission expires to prevent a lapse in licensure.

To renew your California notary public license, follow the same process as your original application:

Complete a three-hour refresher course*
Present required materials at the exam site
Pass the examination
Get fingerprinted
Purchase a $15,000 surety bond
File your oath and bond

If you complete all application requirements on time, you will receive your new notary public commission 30 days before your current one expires.

*If your current commission expires before you reapply, you must take the six-hour course again before reappointment.

How Much Does It Cost to Get a Notary Public License in California?

The cost of becoming a California notary public is typically around $150–$200 in total. You can expect the following expenses:

Application fee: $40
Surety bond: $50–$130*
Supplies: Varies, typically $40–$70

Exact pricing will vary depending on the surety bond and notary supply vendors you choose.

*This estimate reflects SuretyBonds.com notary bond rates plus E&O coverage options.

Can I Be a Remote Notary in California?

As of September 30, 2023, the Online Notarization Act bill was signed into law by Governor Gavin Newsom. The Senate Bill authorizes notarial transactions through certain online platforms. However, the law will not take effect until the Secretary of State completes and approves the necessary technology.

For up-to-date information on remote online notaries in California, check with the Secretary of State and Customer Alerts.