How to become a Notary Public in California
Becoming a NOTARY PUBLIC in California is not too difficult, and it looks good on any resume. Some people even make a living off of being a notary public. You can charge $10 per signature plus travel fees. A notary public is a public servant appointed by the government to be of service to the public. In California, you must be 18 years old to become a notary public.
The first step in becoming a notary public is the complete the mandatory education. The purpose of the education is to provide you with proper training and give you an understanding of your duties. Training is six hours. After you finish your training, you will be given a Certificate of Completion, which is valid for two years. You must take and pass the Notary Public exam before your Certificate of Completion expires. Your education vendor must be reviewed and approved by the Secretary of State. You can check your vendor's approval with the Secretary of State online at http://notaryeducation.sos.ca.gov.
Download the Notary Public Handbook online or call the Secretary of State's office at (916) 653-3595 to request one. Any information in the handbook is subject to being on the notary public exam.
Next you need to register to take the California exam. You can register easily online at http://www.cps.ca.gov/TakeATest/Notary/registration.asp. You will be sent a confirmation letter in the mail approximately 10 days before your exam. You can pay for the exam on the day of examination.
Bring your driver's license or US Passport to the exam, along with the application form, your certificate of completion, and two sharpened No. 2 pencils. Download the application form at http://www.sos.ca.gov/business/notary/notary_formsfees.htm. You must send two (2) passport style photos with your notary public application. The exam is about an hour and a half, and is closed book. If you pass your exam, you will be sent a pass letter and a live-scan form so you can get fingerprinted. Your Notary Commission will be sent within 6 weeks of passing the exam. Make sure you are fingerprinted promptly, so that it does not delay your application. Once your commission arrives, you will have a certain amount of time (about a month) to take your oath at the County Recorder's office.
It is a good idea to join the National Notary Association. You will get a discount on your supplies, including your seal, journal, and thumbprint pad. Visit www.nationalnotary.org. Finally, stay up to date on changes in Notary Public laws. Check with the California Business Portal each year for new laws.
