NOTARY PUBLIC CANDIDATE INFORMATION

 

Frequency of Testing: Candidates can test ONLY once per calendar month. If the exam is taken more than once in a calendar month, the second score will be invalid and any fees paid will be forfeited.

 

Re-appointments: Candidates applying for reappointment are not encouraged to test more then twelve months in advance of the commission expiration.

 

Result Notification: Results from your Notary Public Examination will be sent 15 business days following the exam. Result information will not be discussed over the phone. A score of 70% or better is passing.

 

Candidates passing the examination: All persons appointed as a Notary Public are required to undergo a background check by the California Department of Justice and the Federal Bureau of Investigation for each and every Notary Public Appointment.

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When taking or retaking the exam, please submit:

 

• Current photo ID (California Driver's License or ID Card issued by the DMV)

• Fail notification letter if you have previously taken the state exam 

• Completed notary public application form- 

• The original Proof of Completion from your education class

• 2" x 2" color passport photograph of yourself

• For new applicants: A check, cashiers check, or money order for $40.00 made payable to the Secretary of State.  

• Cash will not be accepted.  

• Applicants who have previously taken the exam and failed: $20.00

REQUIREMENTS FOR THE NEW NOTARY APPLICANT

 

Links-

Secretary of State Website

Notary Public State Handbook 2018

Notary Live Scan Form

Live Scan Locations

Notary Public Application 

CPS for Exam Sign up

 

 

 

 

Every person appointed as a notary public shall:

 

• Be 18 years of age or older (there is no maximum age set by statute)

• Be a legal California resident

• The applicant is not required to be a Citizen of the United States

• Complete a course of study approved by the Secretary of State- 

• Every notary public applicant must complete a six-hour approved course of study prior to being appointed by the Secretary of State as a Commissioned notary public

• Pass a written examination prescribed by the Secretary of State- 

• Clear a fingerprint background check- 

 

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