How to become a Notary in California

The process for becoming a signing agent varies from state to state. Each state sets its own notarial rules, seal and record book requirements, state-approved educational courses, duties, procedures and length of term.

A potential notary public in California who is seeking to acquire his or her notary commission is initially required to file an application with the Office of the Secretary of State. In order to do this, the applicant for the position of notary public in California must meet a number of specific qualifications set by the state.

Furthermore, an applicant for the position of notary public in California must pay an application or commissioning fee to the commissioning authority and take an oath of office. Depending on the state, the oath of office may be incorporated into the application to be filed with the county clerk or another local official.

Please note that a potential notary public in California who is seeking to attain their notary commission may be required to take additional steps to acquire their commission, such as taking a state-approved educational course, passing an examination or obtaining a notary bond. As mentioned previously, the requirements vary from state to state and are subject to amendments and changes.

Once the Secretary of State has reviewed the application, if all the requirements have been met, the applicant for position of notary public in California is issued his or her notary commission. After this commission is issued it is filed by the county clerk for the state of California.

For constantly-updated information on becoming a notary public in California, please contact the California Office of the Secretary of State. The page of the Secretary of State is a great place to start researching the specific requirements set by the state of California.

California Signing Agent Links

Notary Public in California – Secretary of State

Notary Public in California – National Notary Association

Notary Public in California: Quick Facts