How to Become a Public Notary in California
A notary public in California is a sworn public servant, as in other states. Notaries witness depositions, notarize signatures and administer oaths. If you want to become a notary public in California, you must be at least 18 years old and a resident of the state. In addition, you may not have a felony conviction. Some misdemeanor convictions will also disqualify you if it has been less than 10 years since you completed parole for the offense. You should allow at least three to four months for completing the process of becoming a notary in California.
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Things You'll Need
- Valid photo ID
- Fees
- 2 inches x 2 inches color passport-style photo
- Application form
- Request for live scan
- Notary stamp/seal
- Notary journal
- Notary bond
Instructions
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1
Take a training course approved by the California Secretary of State. You can browse a list of approved courses and contact information on the Secretary of State Notary Public website (See References).
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Download and print the California notary public application instructions--the application is at the end of the instructions--from the California Secretary of State website. Alternatively, you can order an information packet from Cooperative Personnel Services to be sent to you by mail (See References). The information packet includes the application form and instructions to fill it out.
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3
Register with Cooperative Personnel Services online to take the California notary public written exam (See References). When you go to the testing site to take your exam, bring a valid photo ID (driver's license, California state ID, and passport are examples) plus two N. 2 pencils. You also need your completed application form and a "fail letter" if you have taken the exam before but did not pass. You should be prepared to pay the testing fee with a check or money order at this time.
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4
Submit a "Request for Live Scan" form--available on the Secretary of State Notary Public website. You will be notified which live scan site you are to go to have your fingerprints taken. You must have your fingerprints recorded and a background check through the Federal Bureau of Investigation before you can become a notary in California. Bring separate checks or money orders to pay for the fingerprinting and the background check.
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5
Wait until you receive your notary commission packet in the mail. At this point you must purchase an approved notary seal or stamp and notary journal available at office supply stores. You must also buy a notary bond from a bonding company of your choice.
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Appear at the county clerk's office in the county you reside in to file your bond and notary oath. You must do this within 30 days of the date of your notary commission found in your commission packet. You are allowed to file by mail but it is not recommended because a delay in the mail delivery or processing may run you past the 30 day limit and it will not be extended. Bring a check or money order to pay the filing fee.
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References
- Photo Credit timbro image by goccedicolore.it from Fotolia.com
