CA Notary Prep / How to become a notary in California
How to become a notary in California
Updated October 2026 · Based on the 2026 California Notary Public Handbook
Becoming a notary in California takes seven official steps, and two deadlines catch people out: your exam pass lasts only one year, and after your commission arrives you have just 30 calendar days to file your oath and bond.
Who can apply
- At least 18 years old (there is no maximum age).
- A legal resident of California. US citizenship is not required.
- Able to pass a background check. You must disclose every conviction, including dismissed ones and DUIs, however old. Failing to disclose a conviction is itself a reason for denial.
The 7 steps
1. Complete the 6-hour approved course
Take a course from a vendor approved by the Secretary of State (the list is on notaryeducation.sos.ca.gov). You receive a Proof of Completion, valid for 2 years. Everyone being appointed takes the full 6 hours, even former notaries. The 3-hour refresher is only for current notaries who renew before their commission expires.
2. Register for the exam
Register online with CPS HR Consulting, the official exam administrator. Walk-ins are accepted only if seats remain. See the exam schedule and locations.
3. Take the exam
Bring your photo ID, the completed application (form SOS/NP-30) with a 2x2 color passport photo, your Proof of Completion, a $40 check or money order payable to "Secretary of State", and No. 2 pencils. The exam is 45 questions in 60 minutes, closed book. Try the free practice test.
4. Get your Live Scan fingerprints
Only after you pass. Instructions come with your results. Fingerprints must be taken within 1 year of your exam date, or you have to test again.
5. Wait for your commission packet
Once your background check clears, the Secretary of State mails your commission certificate, two oath and filing forms, and a Certificate of Authorization to buy your seal.
6. Buy your bond, seal and journal
A $15,000 surety bond is mandatory. Your seal must come from a manufacturer authorized by the Secretary of State, using your Certificate of Authorization.
7. File your oath and bond within 30 days
File with the county clerk of the county of your principal place of business, within 30 calendar days of the start date on your commission. This deadline cannot be extended. Miss it and your commission never takes effect.
What it costs
| Exam and application (state) | $40, or $20 for a retake |
|---|---|
| 6-hour course | set by the approved vendor |
| Live Scan fingerprints | a DOJ fee, an FBI fee and a rolling fee paid at the Live Scan site |
| $15,000 surety bond | premium set by the surety company |
| Seal and journal | set by the vendor |
| County filing | recording fee set by the county |
Timeline to expect
Exam results take 15 to 20 business days. The Secretary of State then processes applications in order of exam date: in October 2026 it was working on exams from about 7 weeks earlier. Add the Live Scan background check and the time to buy your bond and seal, and plan for several weeks to a few months in total.
After you are commissioned
- Your commission lasts 4 years and lets you notarize anywhere in California.
- Report any change of address within 30 days. Willfully failing to do so is an infraction with a fine of up to $500.
- Keep one sequential journal and take a right thumbprint for real property documents and powers of attorney.
- The most you can currently charge is $15 per signature for an acknowledgment. See all California notary fees.