California notaries are getting their first increase in maximum notarial fees in nearly a decade!
Beginning January 1, 2027, California notaries will be permitted to charge up to $20 for certain notarial acts, an increase from the current $15 maximum.
The change comes through Assembly Bill 1597 (AB 1597), which updates California Government Code Section 8211 and increases the maximum fees for several common notarial services.
Whether you’re an experienced notary public, preparing to renew your commission, or studying to become a California notary, here’s what you need to know about the upcoming changes.
What Are the New California Notary Fees for 2027?
Beginning January 1, 2027, the maximum allowable fees for several California notarial services will increase by $5.
The following table compares the current fees with the new maximums.
| Notarial Service | 2026 Maximum | 2027 Maximum |
|---|---|---|
| Acknowledgment, per signature | $15 | $20 |
| Jurat, including oath or affirmation | $15 | $20 |
| Proof of execution | $15 | $20 |
| Deposition services | $30 | $35 |
| Deposition oath or affirmation | $7 | $12 |
| Deposition certificate | $7 | $12 |
| Certified copy of a power of attorney | $15 | $20 |
| Vote-by-mail ballot notarization | $0 | $0 |
| Qualifying U.S. military veterans’ benefits documents | $0 | $0 |
Important: The increased fees do not take effect until January 1, 2027. California notaries must continue following the existing maximum fee schedule through December 31, 2026.
Why Are California Notary Fees Increasing?
California’s maximum notarial fees have remained unchanged since 2017.
During that time, the cost of operating a notary business has increased significantly. Notaries face expenses such as professional education, supplies, insurance, transportation, and business operations.
AB 1597 was introduced to address these rising costs and help support the availability of notarial services throughout California.
The legislation increases the maximum fees that notaries may charge while preserving existing restrictions on certain no-fee notarizations.
Can California Notaries Charge $20 Per Signature in 2027?
Yes. Beginning January 1, 2027, California notaries may charge up to $20 for each signature taken when performing an acknowledgment or proof of execution.
For example, if two individuals sign a document and each signature requires an acknowledgment, the maximum total notarial fee would generally be $40.
However, notaries are not required to charge the maximum.
A California notary may choose to charge a lower fee or provide certain services without charge, subject to applicable laws and employment requirements.
Can a Notary Charge $20 Before January 1, 2027?
No. The new fee schedule does not become effective until January 1, 2027.
For the remainder of 2026, the maximum fee for an acknowledgment remains $15 per signature.
Charging more than the amount permitted by California law may expose a notary to disciplinary consequences.
Does the 2027 Fee Increase Apply to Mobile Notaries?
Yes. The updated statutory maximums apply to covered notarial acts whether they are performed at an office, a client’s home, a hospital, or another location.
Mobile notaries should distinguish the statutory notarization fee from any separately agreed-upon travel or convenience charges.
For example, a mobile notary may charge an applicable travel fee in addition to the permitted notarial fee, provided the arrangement complies with California law and the customer understands the charges.
The increase to $20 does not automatically establish or increase a mobile notary’s travel fee.
Are Any Notarial Services Still Free in California?
Yes. California law continues to prohibit fees for certain notarial services.
Examples include notarizing signatures on vote-by-mail ballot identification envelopes or other voting materials, and qualifying applications or claims for U.S. military veterans’ benefits.
Notaries should continue reviewing the California Notary Public Handbook for all applicable no-fee exceptions.
What Does the 2027 Fee Increase Mean for New Notaries?
For individuals considering becoming a California notary public, the higher maximum fees may create additional earning potential.
For example, a notary completing five separate acknowledgment signatures at the maximum allowable fee could collect:
- 2026: 5 signatures × $15 = $75
- 2027: 5 signatures × $20 = $100
That’s a potential $25 increase for the same number of notarial acts.
These figures are illustrations, not guaranteed earnings. Actual income depends on customer demand, the services performed, expenses, and the fees a notary chooses to charge.
Do California Notaries Need Additional Training Because of the Fee Increase?
The fee increase itself does not establish a new training requirement.
However, new and renewing notaries should remain familiar with California’s current notarial laws, fee limits, identification requirements, journal procedures, and prohibited acts.
At Notary Public Class, we provide California notary education for individuals preparing to obtain or renew their notary commissions.
Our training options include:
- 6-hour California notary public training for new applicants
- 3-hour refresher training for eligible renewing notaries
- Online, self-paced training
- In-person notary classes in Los Angeles
- Notary exam preparation resources
Understanding fee limits is an important part of performing notarial duties correctly.
Frequently Asked Questions About California Notary Fees in 2027
When do California notary fees increase?
The new maximum fees take effect January 1, 2027.
What is the maximum notary fee in California in 2027?
For an acknowledgment or proof of execution, the maximum increases to $20 per signature. The maximum for a jurat increases to $20.
Can a California notary charge less than $20?
Yes. The law establishes maximum fees, not mandatory prices. Notaries generally have discretion to charge less or waive fees, subject to applicable exceptions.
Can California notaries charge $25 per signature?
No. Under the new 2027 schedule, the maximum for a standard acknowledgment is $20 per signature, not $25.
Does the new fee apply to loan signing agents?
The updated statutory limits apply to covered notarial acts. Loan signing agents must still distinguish regulated notarial fees from other lawful services and contractual arrangements.
Will the California notary exam change in 2027?
The fee increase alone does not establish a new exam format. Applicants should study the laws and official examination materials applicable when they take their exam.
Prepare for Your California Notary Commission With Notary Public Class
Whether you’re becoming a notary for the first time or preparing to renew your commission, staying informed about California notary laws is essential.
At Notary Public Class, we help students understand notarial responsibilities and prepare for the California notary examination.
Explore our California notary training options and get started today.
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Sources and Additional Resources
- California Assembly Bill 1597 (2025–2026)
- California Government Code Section 8211
- California Secretary of State — Notary Public Handbook
This article provides general educational information and is not legal advice. Notaries should consult current California law and official Secretary of State guidance.
