California Notary Bond Overview
- Purpose: To protect the public and the state from illegal notary actions
- Who Needs It: Any person applying to become a public notary in California
- Regulating Body: The California Secretary of State
- Bond Amount: $15,000
- Premium Price: $50–$130; based on E&O coverage
What Is a California Notary Bond?
A California notary bond protects clients and the general public if a notary breaks the law or acts unethically. All notaries public need a $15,000 surety bond.
By filing a California notary bond, you agree to perform all duties as required by law. The bond protects your clients if you fail to do so.
How Much Do Notary Bonds Cost?
California notary bonds cost a flat rate of $50 for four years of coverage.
Want extra protection? Add on optional errors and omissions coverage for just $40–$80 more. Buy your bond in minutes.
SuretyBonds.com offers the lowest available rates from our nationwide provider network with no added fees.
Bond and E&O Requirements for California Notaries
A notary bond protects your clients — errors and omissions protects you. Here’s how they work together:
- Surety Bond: Can reimburse clients for notary malpractice or serious professional mistakes
- E&O Insurance: Protects a notary if a client takes legal action due to accidental errors or omissions
All notaries in California need $15,000 bond coverage and can choose optional E&O coverage.
How to Get a Surety Bond for a Notary License
You can buy your California notary bond in minutes using the form on this page. It only takes three steps:
- Select your E&O coverage option.
- Enter your name and address.
- Provide payment details.
We’ll mail you the original bond form. Be sure to file this with your local county clerk’s office.
How Does a Notary Bond Work?
When you file a California notary bond, you enter a legally-binding contract with two other parties.
| Bond Party | Description |
|---|---|
| 1) Principal | You, the bonded notary public |
| 2) Obligee | The California Secretary of State |
| 3) Surety | Us, the issuing surety provider |
If you break the bond terms, anyone harmed can file a claim on the bond. If a claim is valid, the surety reimburses the damages up to the bond amount.
How Do I Renew My Notary Bond?
California notary bonds last for four years. If you renew your notary commission, you’ll also need to renew the surety bond.
We’ll send out helpful reminders during the renewal period. To extend your bond coverage, just pay the renewal premium. We’ll issue a new bond form for you to file with your county clerk’s office.
Can I Make Changes to My Bond?
If you need to update information on your bond form like a name or address, contact your surety company. You can reach us at [email protected] with the change request.
When possible, we issue free bond rider forms to amend existing bond forms.
How Do I Become a Notary Public in California?
The California Secretary of State manages statewide notary commissions. To become a California notary public, follow these steps:
- Complete an approved six-hour notary course.
- Register for and take the state exam.
- Submit LiveScan fingerprints for a background check.
- Receive your commission packet after passing the background check.
- Buy an approved notary journal and seal
- Take your notary oath and file the surety bond within 30 days.
Find more information in the resources below.
