Age and residency
Applicants must be at least 18 and legal California residents.
California notary education
California Notary
Education &
Exam Preparation
Professional notary education, made approachable. Build your knowledge with clear lessons, practical examples, and focused exam preparation.
✓Learn online✓Study at your pace✓Practice with confidence
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6 / 3
HOUR COURSES6-month access to complete
6-hour & 3-hour courses
Structured online lessons
Audio-supported learning
Downloadable completion certificate
Before you enroll
California applicant requirements
Understand the state requirements and select the appropriate education course.
Approved coursework
Complete education approved by the Secretary of State, then pass the prescribed written examination.
Background clearance
A background check is required before appointment. Review the state's disclosure instructions when completing your application.
Read California's qualifications ↗Independent education provider · Not a government agency
Choose your path
California Notary
Course Options
Compare education options, then review the eligibility and timing requirements below.
NEW APPLICANTS06 HOURS
California Notary Course - 6HR
The required 6-hour course for first-time California notary applicants. Covers all duties, responsibilities, notarial acts, journal requirements, fraud prevention, and legal obligations under California law.
$35.99one-time course fee
- ✓California notary law and responsibilities
- ✓Notarial acts, journals, and fraud prevention
- ✓Audio-supported lessons and practice resources
- ✓Downloadable completion certificate
RETURNING NOTARIES03 HOURS
California Notary Course - 3HR
The required 3-hour renewal course for California notaries renewing their commission. Covers updated laws, recent legislative changes, liability best practices, and digital notarization updates.
$19.5one-time course fee
- ✓California notary law and procedure review
- ✓Journal requirements and professional practices
- ✓Audio-supported lessons and practice resources
- ✓Downloadable completion certificate
Select the correct education option. First-time applicants and applicants with expired commissions need 6-hour education. The 3-hour option is for eligible current notaries. Education and renewal rules ↗
Tuition covers education; state application, fingerprinting, supplies, and county filing costs are separate.
Tuition covers education; state application, fingerprinting, supplies, and county filing costs are separate.
Built around the way you learn
Structured learning.
Practical preparation.
An organized learning space keeps your next step clear, so you can focus on the material.
01
Pick up where you left offFollow your progress through an organized course outline.
02
Learn, then put it into practiceReview concepts with practice questions and mock exams.
03
Finish with a clear next stepAccess your certificate and post-course guidance.
The commissioning process
From education to appointment
Course completion is one step. State appointment and county filing are separate steps beyond your education.
01
Complete approved education
Select the appropriate course and retain your Proof of Completion for the exam.
State instructions ↗02
Register for the examination
Use the exam registration service linked by the Secretary of State to select an available session.
State instructions ↗03
Attend and pass the exam
Bring your application documents and required payment. A score of 70 or higher is required.
State instructions ↗04
Submit Live Scan fingerprints
After passing, submit fingerprints within one year of the exam date. Fingerprints are required for each commission term.
State instructions ↗05
Receive your commission packet
The state mails your packet after application approval and background clearance. Review the enclosed filing instructions.
State instructions ↗06
Obtain your notary materials
Arrange your bond, sequential journal, and seal. Order the seal from an authorized manufacturer using the documentation in your packet.
State instructions ↗07
File your oath and bond
File with the county clerk where your principal business is located within 30 calendar days of the commission commencement date. This deadline cannot be extended.
State instructions ↗Prepare for exam day
Documents, fees,
and next steps.
Prepare your documents before your appointment and review the current state instructions.
Official exam instructions ↗Your exam checklist
- ✓Current photo identification
- ✓Completed current Notary Public Application
- ✓2 × 2-inch color passport photo
- ✓Proof of Completion from approved education
- ✓Registration confirmation letter
- ✓$40 exam and application fee by check or money order payable to the Secretary of State; no cash
A failed-exam retake costs $20. You may not test more than once in the same calendar month.
Applicant guidance
Questions before enrollment
Course selection, renewal timing, and the steps beyond your education.
You must hold a current California commission and have previously completed approved 6-hour education. Complete the refresher, apply, and take the exam before your commission expires. If it expires before course completion and receipt of your completed application, take the 6-hour course. Education and renewal rules ↗