How to Become a Notary Public in California: Step by Step

Becoming a Notary Public in California involves several steps to ensure you meet all requirements and complete the necessary training and exams. Here’s a detailed guide:

Steps to Become a Notary in California

1. Ensure You Meet the Qualifications

• Must be at least 18 years old.
• Must be a legal resident of California.
• Cannot have been convicted of felonies or crimes involving moral turpitude.

2. Complete a Required Course

• First-time applicants must complete a six-hour course from an approved provider.
• Renewing applicants must complete a three-hour refresher course before their commission expires.

3. Fill Out the California Notary Public Application

Complete the application form (Form SOS/NP-30 (REV 02/2024)) online, print it single-sided, and sign it by hand in ink.

4. Register for and Pass the State Exam

Register for the exam through Cooperative Personnel Services (CPS).
Bring a photo ID, your application, a 2″x2″ color photo, your course completion certificate, a letter confirming your registration, and a $40 fee to the exam location.
Pass the proctored written exam with a score of at least 70%.

5. Complete LiveScan Fingerprinting

Process your LiveScan fingerprinting for a background check at an approved location. The Department of Justice provides a directory of LiveScan sites.

6. Receive Your Notary Commission Certificate

Wait for your notary commission certificate to arrive by mail.

7. Secure a $15,000 Surety Bond

Purchase a surety bond from an authorized company.

8. Register Your Bond and Oath

Register your bond and take your oath of office at the county clerk’s office within 30 days of receiving your commission.

9. Purchase Notary Supplies

Buy an official Notary journal and stamp from an approved vendor. The stamp must be rectangular (no larger than 1″x2.5″) or circular (max 2″ diameter) with specific details like your name, the state seal, and your commission info.

10. Consider Errors and Omissions Insurance

While optional, obtaining Errors and Omissions insurance is recommended for additional protection.

Costs Involved

The total cost to become a Notary in California can vary based on several factors:

• Application and Exam Fee: $40
• Mandatory Training Course: Varies by provider
• Surety Bond: Cost depends on the provider
• Background Check (LiveScan): Fees vary by location
• Passport-Style Photo: Cost varies
• Notary Supplies: Prices vary by vendor
• County Clerk Filing Fees: Varies by county

Timeframe to Become a Notary

The process can take from two weeks to six months, depending on the current backlog of applications. The California Secretary of State is currently processing applications submitted with an exam date from 10 to 12 weeks ago. Exam results are typically available 15 business days after the exam.

Duration of a California Notary Commission

A California Notary commission is valid for four years. You will need to renew your commission after this period to continue as a Notary.

Qualification Requirements

To become a Notary Public in California, you must:

• Be at least 18 years old.
• Be a legal resident of California.
• Not have been convicted of felonies or crimes involving moral turpitude, such as burglary, embezzlement, fraud, statutory rape, and tax evasion.

Training and Exam Requirements

• Training: A six-hour course for first-time applicants or a three-hour refresher course for renewing applicants from an approved provider.
• Exam: A proctored written exam by CPS with a passing score of at least 70%. Retakes cost $20.

Supplies Needed

• Notary Seal: Must be purchased from an approved vendor and meet state specifications.
• Notary Journal: Required for record-keeping of all notarizations.

Surety Bond Requirement

• $15,000 Surety Bond: Required by state law to protect the public from potential errors or misconduct by the Notary.

Errors and Omissions Insurance

• Optional but Recommended: Provides coverage for legal fees and damages up to your policy limit.

Oversight and Regulations

• California Secretary of State: The Office of the Secretary of State, Business Programs Division, Notary Public Section in Sacramento, oversees Notary administration.

Non-U.S. Citizens

• Eligibility: Legal state residents who meet all other criteria can become Notaries.

Help and Training

• Resources: The Secretary of State’s website offers a database of approved education providers and resources like the state Notary Public Handbook.
• Training Organizations: Many organizations, including the NNA, offer Notary training.

Notarization Locations and Limitations

• Statewide Authority: You can notarize documents anywhere in California.
• Conflict of Interest: You cannot notarize documents if you have a direct interest in them. Notarizing for relatives is allowed unless it directly benefits you.

Fees

• Maximum Fee: Up to $15 per notarization act.
  Travel Fees: Permissible if agreed upon by the signer beforehand.

Updating Details

• Address or Name Changes: Report changes to the Secretary of State. Address changes require the Notary Public Address Change form or a letter within 30 days. Name changes require the Notary Public Name Change form and a new seal.

Renewal Process

• Similar to Initial Application: Requires a three-hour refresher course if renewed before expiration. Start the process six months in advance to avoid gaps in commission.

Remote Online Notarization (RON)

• Future Implementation: Laws have been passed, but the Secretary of State must set rules before it’s implemented, likely not until at least 2025.

Californian citizens are currently allowed to get their documents notarized by notaries online in other states, enabling them to utilize remote notarization services.

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