How to Get a Notary Public License in California
Last updated: March 1, 2026
Quick Facts
Education
6 hrs
Total Cost
$225
Governing Body
California Secretary of State
California is the nation's most populous state with one of the most competitive real estate markets, making it an excellent place to start a career as a notary public. Licensing in California is overseen by the California Secretary of State. The process requires 6 hours of pre-license education and costs between $150 and $300 in total. You'll need to pass the California Notary Public Exam (administered by California Secretary of State (proctored exam)) with a score of at least 70%.
California requires just 6 hours of pre-license education — one of the lowest requirements in the nation. The total cost is relatively affordable at $150 to $300, including education, application, and exam fees. Most aspiring notary publics complete the entire process in 4-8 weeks, depending on how quickly they move through the coursework and exam preparation.
CaliforniaNotary Public License Requirements
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Minimum Age | 18 years old |
| Pre-License Education | 6 hours |
| Degree Required | No |
| Exam Required | Yes — California Notary Public Exam |
| Passing Score | 70% |
| Background Check | Yes |
| Broker Sponsorship | Not required |
| Application Fee | $40 |
| Exam Fee | $40 |
| Governing Body | California Secretary of State |
| License Reciprocity | None |
Steps to Get Your Notary Public License in California
- 1
Complete Required Training
6 hours of approved notary education from a state-approved vendor
Time: 2-4 weeks Cost: $65 - 2
Submit Your Notary Application
Apply through the California Secretary of State. Pay the application fee of $40. Some states require a background check.
Time: 2-8 weeks for processing Cost: $40 - 3
Pass the Notary Exam
Schedule and pass the notary exam administered by California Secretary of State (proctored exam).
Time: 1-2 weeks Cost: $40 - 4
Purchase Your Surety Bond and Supplies
No sponsorship required. Must obtain a $15,000 surety bond. You'll also need an official notary stamp/seal and a notary journal.
Time: 1-3 days Cost: $50 - 5
File Your Bond and Begin Notarizing
File your surety bond with the California Secretary of State (if required) and you can begin performing notarizations in California.
Time: Immediate once filed
Recommended Courses
Notary.net
State-approved online notary education and renewal courses.
State-approved in most states
View Notary Courses →Recommended
Loan Signing System
Comprehensive training to become a certified loan signing agent. Includes notary business coaching.
Start Signing Agent Training →Key Things to Know
- Education requirement: 6 hours of approved notary education from a state-approved vendor. Many providers offer online options, giving you flexibility to study on your own schedule.
- The licensing exam: The California Notary Public Exam is administered by California Secretary of State (proctored exam). You'll need to score at least 70% to pass. Study materials and practice exams are available from most education providers.
- Background check required: California requires a criminal background check as part of the application process. Plan for additional processing time and fees.
- Online application available: California accepts online applications, which can speed up processing time.
- Ongoing requirements: Once licensed, you'll need 6 hours of continuing education every 4 years. 6 hours of notary education required before each renewal.
How Much Does a Notary Public License Cost in California?
| Cost Item | Estimated Range |
|---|---|
| Pre-License Education | $300 - $700 |
| Application Fee | $40 |
| Exam Fee | $40 |
| Total Estimated Cost | $150 - $300 |
License Renewal
- Renewal Period: Every 4 years
- Continuing Education:6 hours
- CE Details:6 hours of notary education required before each renewal
- Renewal Fee: $40
Tips for Success
- Choose your education provider carefully: Compare prices, format (online vs. in-person), and reviews. Some providers offer exam prep materials bundled with the course, which can save you money. Check the California Secretary of State website for a list of approved providers.
- Don't rush the exam: With only 6 hours required, you can complete the education portion quickly — some providers offer accelerated programs that finish in 2-3 weeks. Use practice exams to identify weak areas before scheduling your test date.
- Get your surety bond and supplies: Most states require a surety bond (typically $5,000-$15,000 face value, costs $30-$100). You'll also need an official notary stamp/seal and a notary journal. Bundle these from a notary supply company to save.
- Consider becoming a Notary Signing Agent: Loan signing agents earn $75-$200 per signing by notarizing mortgage documents. This is a great way to turn your notary commission into a real income stream.
- Budget approximately $300 for your California license: This includes $40 in application fees, $40 for the exam, and education costs. Once licensed, plan for $40 in renewal fees every 4 years.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get a notary public license in California?
Most people complete the process in 2-4 weeks total. The pre-license education (6 hours) takes the longest. After completing education, the exam and application process typically adds 2-6 weeks.
How much does it cost to get a notary public license in California?
The total cost ranges from $150 to $300, including pre-license education, the application fee ($40), and the exam fee ($40).
Can I get a California notary public license with a criminal record?
The California Secretary of State evaluates criminal history on a case-by-case basis. Having a criminal record does not automatically disqualify you, but certain offenses may affect your eligibility. Contact the California Secretary of State for guidance before applying.
Do I need a college degree to become a notary public in California?
No. California does not require a college degree. You only need to complete the 6 hours of approved pre-license courses.
Can I take the pre-license courses online in California?
Many approved education providers offer pre-license courses online, allowing you to study at your own pace. Check the California Secretary of State website for a list of approved providers.
Sources
Professional Associations & Resources
Connect with these national organizations for career resources, networking, and continuing education.
Compare With Other States
Notary Public in Other States
From Our Blog
10 Easiest Professional Licenses to Get in 2026
The 10 easiest professional licenses to earn in 2026, ranked by education hours and total cost. Find quick-start careers with minimal barriers.
Best ROI Professional Licenses: Low Cost, High Salary
The best return-on-investment professional licenses ranked by salary-to-cost ratio. Find licenses that cost little but pay big.
Cheapest States for Professional Licensing (2026)
Which states have the lowest professional licensing costs? We ranked all 50 states by average licensing cost across 49 professions.