How to become a notary in California: the official requirements
Who can apply, the training, bond and term, and the steps, from the California Secretary of State's own published requirements.
To become a notary public in California: Who can apply: Legal resident of California, at least 18, who completes the approved course, passes the written exam and passes a background check. Training: A six-hour course approved by the Secretary of State before your first appointment; a three-hour refresher course before reappointment. Exam: A written examination prescribed by the Secretary of State. Bond: A $15,000 official bond. Commission term: Four years from the date in the commission. Commissions are issued by the California Secretary of State.
Notary requirements in California
| Requirement | California |
|---|---|
| Who can apply | Legal resident of California, at least 18, who completes the approved course, passes the written exam and passes a background check. |
| Training | A six-hour course approved by the Secretary of State before your first appointment; a three-hour refresher course before reappointment. |
| Exam | A written examination prescribed by the Secretary of State. |
| Bond | A $15,000 official bond. |
| Commission term | Four years from the date in the commission. |
| State fee | Not stated in the official source we read. Check with the California Secretary of State. |
| Background check | Fingerprinting for a background check before the commission is granted. |
| Oath and filing | File the oath of office and the $15,000 bond with the county clerk within 30 calendar days of the start of the term; the commission takes effect only then. |
Where the official source we read does not state something, the table says so rather than guessing.
How to apply in California
- Complete a Secretary of State approved six-hour course.
- Pass the written examination prescribed by the Secretary of State.
- Be fingerprinted for the background check.
- Once commissioned, file the oath of office and the $15,000 bond with the county clerk within 30 calendar days.
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Questions people ask
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How this page is built
Every requirement on this page comes from the California Secretary of State's own published material, read on the dates shown. Requirements and fees change; the authority's current instructions govern.
- Not legal advice.
- Fees charged by bonding agencies, course providers and fingerprint vendors are not included.
- California Secretary of State, 2026 California Notary Public Handbook, official source, read Nov 5, 2026.