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California Notary

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How to Become a California Notary


All new and renewing California notaries public are required to take a state-approved training course.

As a notary public in the State of California, you have UNLIMITED financial liability on EVERY document you notarize. You do not want to take the office of Notary Public lightly. The California Online Notary Course is the fastest, easiest and most affordable way for you to learn what to do and how to protect yourself as a notary. Whether you are a new or current notary public, you should spend some time learning the laws. It’s less expensive than an attorney consult!

Interactive California Notary Course Features:

Video Instruction

We use the power of the internet to bring an instructor right into your computer. The instructor will teach and reinforce the materials to help you retain and connect with it. We even provide you detailed instructions on how to obtain your commission! The video can be accessed at any time, from any computer, tablet or phone with internet access. Plus, you can re-watch the videos as many times as you like.

Immediate Access – No Delays!

Because we value your time, upon receipt of your payment, you will IMMEDIATELY be granted with access to your notary course. You can start your California notary training in just a few minutes!

 Instant Access

Social Interaction

Your course includes a social forum to ask questions and receive responses from your instructor and other students in a classroom-style discussion.

Instant Access to Your Proof of Completion Certificate

After completing the course, you will have access to a Proof of Completion Certificate. Display it proudly to show you take your notary commission seriously and that you are well-trained in the laws and procedures of California notaries public.

Save Money! California Notary Supplies Package

Save money by ordering your training, supplies and bond together in a custom notary supply package. Choose only the items you need or want. If you do not wish to save money you can order the Training Only.

How to Become a Notary Public in California

See the full eligibility requirements here: California Notary Eligibility
  1. Mandatory Education
  2. State Exam
    • Take the state-administered test (same day of LIVE seminar)
      • Bring a $40 check payable to: Secretary of State
      • Bring a 2"x2" Color "Passport" Photograph ($10 at seminar)
      • Bring a valid photo ID
      • Bring a California notary application (will be provided at seminar if you do not bring it)
      • The test is:
        • 30 questions
        • Multiple choice
        • 50 minutes to complete
        • 70% or higher is a passing grade
        • WE GUARANTEE YOU WILL PASS!
      • Online Course State Exam Registration:
        • Call CPS at (916) 263-3520 or
        • Go online to: http://www.cpshr.us/exams/notary/info.html
        • You must register AT LEAST two weeks in advance to guarantee a seat.  You may show up to an exam location as "stand-by."  We recommend you show up at least an hour early.
  3. Test Scores You will receive a letter in the mail saying 'You have passed'
    • After the seminar, you can go online to: https://cmas.cpshr.us/CMAS/Login.aspx to view your test score. To obtain your password, call CPS at (916) 263-3520. Test results should be posted 8-10 business days after the exam.
  4. Live Scan Submit live scan fingerprints to the Department of Justice and FBI for your thorough background check.
  5. Processing Period
    • Wait for your commission paperwork to arrive (4-12 weeks from exam date). For renewing notaries, the commission paperwork for the new commission will be mailed out no sooner than 1 month prior to commission expiration. You can check your notary status at CAnotary.info.
    • You can check current processing times here: http://www.sos.ca.gov/notary/processing-times/
  6. Notary Supplies Order your official notary stamp/embosser and bond
  7. Notary Bond File your 4-year/$15,000 bond and oath of office with the county clerk
  8. Congratulations, you are a California Notary Public! Now you can advertise your services on Notary.net. You can also take our Loan Signing Training Course.

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California Notary Supplies


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California Notary Requirements

Commission Term: 4 years
Minimum Age: 18 years old
Residency: California Resident
Stamp/Seal: Inked Stamp
Journal: Required
Bond: $15,000
Application Fee: $40 (test and application)
Eligibility: No felony convictions or disqualifying misdemeanors.
Other: Mandatory Education, State Exam, Background Check

Address:
Notary Public Section
P.O. Box 942877
Sacramento, CA 94277-0001
Phone: (916) 653-3595

Important California Notary Links

California State Website
California Notary Application
California Apostilles
California Notary Name Change
California Notary Address Change
California Notary Database
California Notary Handbook

What are the total costs to become a new notary in California?

$50-$99 Required Training
$40 State Exam ($20 if failed previous exam)
$72-$80 Live Scan
$10-$15 2x2 "Passport" Photo
$45-$119 Notary Supplies (Journal, stamp, fingerprint kit)
$38-$50 $15,000/4yr bond
$20-$100+ Oath of office, filing and recording fees
$275-$498 Total costs for 4 year commission.

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