HowToGetLicensed

Notary Public License: California vs Illinois

Thinking about getting your notary public license? Here's how California and Illinois compare on education requirements, exam fees, total costs, and renewal obligations.

Requirement California Illinois
Education Hours 6 hours 0 hours
Exam California Notary Public Exam No Exam Required
Application Fee $40 $10
Exam Fee $40 $0
Total Estimated Cost $150 - $300 $40 - $120
Renewal Period Every 4 years Every 4 years
CE Hours 6 hours 0 hours
Renewal Fee $40 $10

Which State Is Easier or Cheaper?

Lower cost: Illinois is the more affordable option, with an average total cost of $40-$120 compared to $150-$300.

Fewer education hours: Illinois requires 0 hours of pre-license education, compared to 6 hours in California.

Full State Guides

Compare notary public requirements across all 50 states →