Revised 1/5/2025
Becoming a notary public in California is an excellent way to expand your professional skills and serve your community. However, there are specific eligibility criteria that applicants must meet to qualify for a notary commission. This guide outlines the essential requirements to become a notary public in California, ensuring you meet the state requirements and understand the application process.
1. Age Requirement
Applicants must be at least 18 years old to qualify for a notary commission. This ensures that candidates are legally recognized as adults and capable of fulfilling their responsibilities.
2. Residency Requirement
You must be a legal resident of California. While U.S. citizenship is not mandatory, you need to establish legal residency within the state. This is crucial because notarial services are jurisdiction-specific, and states require notary applicants to operate within state boundaries.
3. Mandatory Educational Requirement
All applicants are required to complete a six-hour notary public educational course approved by the California Secretary of State. This course covers the legal duties, responsibilities, and notary laws related to the profession. If you are renewing your notary commission and have not had a lapse, a three-hour refresher course is acceptable.
4. State Examination
After completing the mandatory education, applicants must pass a written, proctored exam administered by the Secretary of State. A minimum score of 70% is required to pass. The exam ensures that applicants understand notarial procedures, legal requirements, and ethical practices.
5. Background Check and Fingerprinting
Applicants must undergo a thorough background check conducted by the California Department of Justice (DOJ) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). Fingerprinting is required through Live Scan to verify your criminal history and ensure trustworthiness. Passing a background check is a critical step to receiving notary public commissions. This process helps maintain the integrity of notarial services.
6. Disqualifying Convictions
Certain criminal convictions may disqualify applicants from becoming a notary public. This includes felonies and misdemeanors involving moral turpitude. Even convictions dismissed under California Penal Code sections 1203.4 or 1203.4a must be disclosed during the application process. Transparency is key to avoiding disqualification. Learn more about Notary Disqualifying Convictions.
7. Surety Bond Requirement
Once appointed, notaries must obtain a $15,000 surety bond to protect the public from potential errors or misconduct. This bond must be filed with the county clerk’s office in the county where the notary’s principal place of business is located. The notary bond provides financial protection and ensures accountability in notary public commissions.
8. Oath of Office and Filing Fee
After receiving your notary commission, you must take an oath of office and file it along with your surety bond at the county clerk’s office. A filing fee is required to complete this process. This must be completed within 30 days of the start date of your commission. Failure to complete this step can result in the need to restart the application process.
Additional Considerations
Many notaries pursue notary commissions to support careers in real estate, law, and other professional services. Meeting the educational requirement and completing a training course helps applicants secure notary public commissions that open doors to various opportunities.
Final Thoughts
Meeting the eligibility criteria for becoming a notary public in California is essential to ensure the integrity and reliability of notarial services. By adhering to these requirements, you contribute to upholding the standards of professionalism and trust in the notary community. If you are ready to take the next step in your notary journey, make sure to review all guidelines and prepare thoroughly.
For further details and to start your notary application process, visit the California Secretary of State’s Notary Public website.
Related Articles
- Learn more about the Application Process for Notary Commission.
- Wondering how to pass an exam on the first try? Check out our California Notary Exam Preparation Guide.
- Need help securing your notary bond? Read our guide on How to Obtain a Notary Bond in California.
- Explore the Complete Guide to Notary Public Commissions.
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