How to Become a Notary in California

Want to learn how to become a notary in California? Becoming a Notary Public in California is a rewarding and potentially lucrative career choice. With a high demand for notary services in the state, this profession offers both flexibility and financial stability.

This comprehensive guide will walk you through the entire process of how to become a notary in California, from meeting qualifications to filing your oath and bond. Follow these steps, and you’ll be on your way to a successful career as a California Notary Public.

1. Determine Your Eligibility

Before you start the process of becoming a notary in California, you need to ensure that you meet the state’s requirements. Here are the basic qualifications you must meet:

• Be at least 18 years old
• Be a legal resident of California
• Complete a Secretary of State-approved six-hour education course
• Pass a background check

It’s important to note that you don’t need to be a United States citizen to become a notary in California. However, you must be a legal resident of the state.

Background Check Information

The background check is an essential part of the process, as it ensures that you are a suitable candidate for the role of a notary public. The state will look into your criminal history and any other relevant information to determine whether you can be trusted with the responsibilities of a notary.

For more information on what’s checked during the background process, visit the California Secretary of State’s website.

2. Complete a Secretary of State-Approved Education Course

Once you’ve determined that you meet the eligibility requirements, you’ll need to complete a six-hour education course approved by the California Secretary of State. This course will provide you with the necessary knowledge and skills to perform the duties of a notary public, ensuring that you are well-prepared to serve the public.

There are two types of courses available: in-person classes and online classes. Both options have their advantages and disadvantages, so consider your preferences, schedule, and budget before choosing the best option for you.

In-Person Education Courses

• Often more expensive than online courses
• Offer a one-stop-shop solution, allowing you to complete all necessary steps in one day
• May be difficult to schedule due to limited availability

In-person courses provide an immersive learning experience, with hands-on instruction from experienced notary professionals. However, they can be more expensive and may be challenging to fit into a busy schedule.

Online Education Courses

• Typically more affordable than in-person courses
• Offer flexibility and convenience, allowing you to work at your own pace
• May not include all required components, such as state exam registration or live scan fingerprinting

Online courses are a popular choice for busy professionals, as they allow you to complete the required training at your own pace and on your schedule.

However, be aware that some online courses may not include all necessary components, such as state exam registration or live scan fingerprinting. Be sure to choose a reputable and state-approved online course provider to ensure that you receive the necessary training.

3. Register and Prepare for the State Exam

After completing your education course, you’ll need to register for the California Notary Public State exam. This exam consists of 45 multiple-choice questions, and you must achieve a score of 70% or higher to pass.

Exam Registration and Fees

You can register for the state exam through CPS HR Consulting, the company authorized by the state to administer the notary exam. Visit their website to view upcoming exam dates, locations, and fees.

The exam fees are as follows:

• New applicants and reappointments: $40.00
• Applicants who have previously taken the exam and failed: $20.00

You’ll need to bring a separate check, money order, or cashier’s check made payable to the Secretary of State for the exam fee. Your name must be preprinted on the check, and temporary checks are not accepted. Cash is not accepted either.

Exam Preparation

To ensure success on the state exam, it’s crucial to thoroughly review the material covered in your education course and take practice exams. Many notary education providers offer practice exams as part of their course, and these can be valuable resources for assessing your knowledge and identifying areas where you may need additional study.

Be cautious of any products claiming to provide the actual state exam questions, as this would be both unethical and illegal. Instead, focus on mastering the material covered in your education course and practicing with reputable exam prep resources.

4. Complete a Live Scan Background Check

Once you’ve passed the state exam, you’ll need to complete a live scan fingerprinting background check. California requires this step to confirm your eligibility for a notary commission based on your criminal history and other relevant information.

Live Scan Locations and Fees

To find a live scan location near you, visit the State of California Department of Justice’s website. The cost of live scan fingerprinting can vary, with fingerprint rolling fees ranging from around $10 at local police stations to $60 at private live scan locations. There will also be an additional fee for the actual background check.

5. Wait for Your Commission Packet

After completing the live scan background check, you’ll need to wait for the state to process your notary application and send you a notary public commission packet. The processing time can vary depending on the current queue and the results of your background check.

Your commission packet will include:

• A cover letter with instructions for the next steps
• Instructions for filing a surety bond with the county clerk
• Your notary public commission certificate
• Two Notary Public Oath and Certificate of Filing forms
• A Certificate of Authorization to Manufacture Notary Public Seals
• A list of Authorized Manufacturers of Notary Public Seals

6. Purchase Your Notary Supplies

Upon receiving your commission packet, you can begin purchasing the required notary supplies. These include:

• A notary public seal, which must be purchased from an authorized manufacturer listed in your commission packet
• A notary public journal, used to record all notarial acts
• A notary bond, which provides financial protection for the public in case of errors or wrongdoing on your part as a notary public

Remember that if you’re renewing your notary commission, you’ll need a new seal, as your old one contains your previous commission information.

Notary Bond and Errors & Omissions Insurance

A notary bond is a form of financial protection for the public, ensuring that they are compensated if you make an error or engage in wrongdoing as a notary public.

While the bond protects the public, it does not protect you as a notary. To protect yourself, consider purchasing optional errors & omissions insurance from the same company that sells you the notary bond.

7. File Your Oath and Notary Public Bond

The final step in becoming a notary public in California is to file your oath of office and notary bond with your local county clerk’s office.

This must be done within 30 days of receiving your commission. Failure to do so within the specified timeframe will result in your commission being invalidated, and you’ll have to start the process all over again.

In Conclusion

Becoming a notary public in California involves several steps, but with proper guidance and dedication, you can successfully navigate the process and launch a rewarding career in this essential profession. Follow this comprehensive guide, and you’ll be well on your way to serving the public as a trusted and knowledgeable notary in California.