How to Become a Notary in California (2026)
Step-by-step guide to getting your California notary commission — fees, bond, exam, and timeline. All data from official California state sources.
How to Become a Notary in California — Step by Step
Meet the eligibility requirements
To become a notary in California, you must be at least 18 years old, a legal U.S. resident, and either a resident of California or regularly employed there. You cannot have felony convictions (in most states) unless your civil rights have been restored.
Complete the required education course
California requires you to complete a state-approved notary education course before applying. The course is 6 hours. Courses are available from approved providers and can typically be completed online. Fees vary by provider, usually $20–$80.
Pass the notary exam
California requires all applicants to pass a written notary exam. The exam fee is $40. Schedule your exam through the state or an approved testing provider. Study the California notary handbook — available free from the County Clerk.
Obtain your $15,000 surety bond
California requires a $15,000 surety bond before you can be commissioned. Purchase the bond from a licensed insurance or surety company — the actual premium typically costs $40–$100 for your entire 4-year term. The bond protects the public from errors you may make as a notary; it does not protect you personally.
Submit your application to the County Clerk
File your completed notary application with the County Clerk and pay the $40 application fee. Include proof of your surety bond with the application. Include your certificate of course completion. Include your exam pass certificate. Most states now accept online applications.
Receive your commission and take your oath of office
After your application is approved, you'll receive your notary commission certificate. You must then take an official oath of office — typically before a notary public, judge, or court clerk — within 30–90 days. In California, you also file your bond with the County Clerk at this step. Missing this deadline can void your commission entirely.
Purchase your notary supplies
Order your official California notary seal or stamp and a notary journal/record book. Most states require a specific seal format — check the County Clerk requirements for approved shapes, ink colors, and required text. Supplies typically cost $30–$60. Estimated cost for California: $60.
Start notarizing — and consider signing agent training
Once commissioned, you can begin performing notarizations in California. Traditional notary fees in California: up to $15 per act (state-capped). For higher earnings, consider training as a notary signing agent (see below).
Get Your California Notary Training Materials
NotaryPublicCentral has state-specific study guides and training for California. Use code LEGALCOSTCALC for $10 off.
California Notary Commission — Cost Summary
| State application fee | $40 |
| Commission term | 4 years |
| Surety bond | $15,000 face value (~$40–$100 to purchase) |
| Exam | Required — $40 fee |
| Education course | Required — 6 hours |
| Notary supplies (stamp + journal) | ~$60 |
| Filing office | County Clerk |
| RON available | No |
| Est. total startup cost | $180–$320 |
Exam fee: $40 ($20 for retake). Pass score: 70%. Bond must be filed with the County Clerk within 30 days of commission start date. RON law pending as of 2026.
What Can a California Notary Charge?
California caps notary fees at $15 per notarial act. $15 per notarized signature. Travel fees allowed if reasonable and agreed to in advance. RON law pending.
Earn $75–$200 Per Signing as a California Notary Signing Agent
Once you have your California notary commission, you can earn serious income as a signing agent at real estate loan closings. Loan Signing System teaches you how to find clients and run a full signing business.
Explore Notary Signing Agent Training →