How to Become a Notary in California
California notary commissions are issued by the California Secretary of State. An exam is required. Total cost: $200 - $350. Commission lasts 4 years.
Steps to Become a Notary in California
Complete a 6-hour education course
Take an approved notary education course from a California Secretary of State-approved provider. Available in-person and online.
Pass the California Notary Exam
Register for and pass the proctored written exam. You must score at least 70%. Results are available immediately.
Submit your application
File your notary commission application with the Secretary of State along with the $40 filing fee.
Complete Live Scan fingerprinting
Visit an authorized Live Scan location for electronic fingerprinting. Results go directly to the Secretary of State.
Purchase a $15,000 surety bond
Buy a surety bond from a licensed bond company. Cost is typically $40-$100 per year depending on your credit.
File your oath and bond
After receiving your commission certificate, file your oath of office and bond with the county clerk within 30 days.
Order your notary seal and journal
Purchase an official notary seal (embosser or stamp) and a bound notary journal before performing any notarial acts.
California Notary Requirements
Age & Residency
Minimum age: 18. Must be a legal resident of California or have a principal place of business in the state.
Education
6-hour approved notary education course from a state-approved provider. Required before taking the exam.
Exam
Proctored written exam administered by approved vendors. Covers California notary laws, procedures, and ethics. Must score at least 70% to pass.
Background Check
Live Scan fingerprinting required. Results submitted directly to the Secretary of State. Criminal history may disqualify applicants.
Surety Bond
$15,000 bond required. Annual cost: $40 - $100 per year.
Application Fee
$40 filing fee with the California Secretary of State.
Equipment You Need
Notary Seal
Embosser or rubber stamp. Must include notary name, "Notary Public," county of commission, commission number, commission expiration date, and State Seal.
Required: YesNotary Journal
Sequential journal of all notarial acts is mandatory. Must record date, time, type of document, signer identification, and fee charged. Must be kept for life of commission and delivered to county clerk when commission ends.
Required: YesWhat California Notaries Can and Cannot Do
Can Notarize
Cannot Notarize
Remote Online Notarization in California
California does not currently allow Remote Online Notarization (RON). Legislation has been proposed multiple times but has not been enacted as of 2026.
How to Renew Your California Notary Commission
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to become a notary in California?
The entire process typically takes 4-8 weeks. The education course takes 1 day, and after passing the exam, you wait 2-6 weeks for your commission certificate from the Secretary of State.
How much does it cost to become a notary in California?
Total cost is approximately $200-$350, which includes the education course ($80-$150), exam fee ($40), application fee ($40), Live Scan fingerprinting ($40-$65), surety bond ($40-$100/year), and seal/journal ($30-$60).
Do I need to take an exam to become a California notary?
Yes. California is one of the few states that requires a written exam. The proctored exam covers notary laws, procedures, and ethics. You must score at least 70% to pass.
Can I perform remote online notarizations in California?
No. As of 2026, California does not allow Remote Online Notarization (RON). All notarizations must be performed in person. Legislation has been proposed but not enacted.
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