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California Notary Public — Requirements & Free Practice

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Each license and applicant pathway has its own requirements and exemptions. Choosing practice questions does not determine your eligibility.

Notary Public

Government employee appointment under Government Code section 8202.5 for state, city, county or public school district service.

Licensing authority: California Secretary of State · Application information

Amended commission following a legal name change
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Amended qualification
File a new oath and a bond amendment within 30 days of the amended commission, then obtain a seal reflecting the new name within 30 days of filing; the amendment takes effect upon timely filing.
Existing commission
Hold the existing commission; submit the name-change application to the Secretary of State.
Government service
Act for and on behalf of the governmental entity. The employer may pay bond and supplies; fees are remitted to it when the statutory employer-paid bond and fee-free filing conditions apply.
Identity continuity
The commission term and commission number remain the same.
Public employment
Be an employee of the state, a city, a county or a public school district; an authorized employer representative certifies that the appointment is for the employing governmental entity.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reinstatement during the existing term following child support release
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Existing term
The commission was suspended for child-support noncompliance and the commissioned term has not expired.
Government service
Act for and on behalf of the governmental entity. The employer may pay bond and supplies; fees are remitted to it when the statutory employer-paid bond and fee-free filing conditions apply.
Public employment
Be an employee of the state, a city, a county or a public school district; an authorized employer representative certifies that the appointment is for the employing governmental entity.
Release
The Secretary of State must receive the child-support agency release and any applicable reinstatement applications and fees before reinstating the commission for the remaining term.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reappointment with an unexpired California commission
California Notary Public Examination
Application
Submit the completed notary application and a 2 by 2 inch color passport photograph at the exam site; the application is processed by the Secretary of State after a passing result.
Background check
Submit fingerprints for California DOJ and FBI review for each appointment; the Secretary of State determines honesty, credibility, truthfulness and integrity and reviews pending arrests and all convictions, including dismissed convictions.
Child support
A child-support certified-list entry affects full-term issuance and continued commission status under Family Code section 17520; an otherwise eligible applicant receives the temporary term described separately.
Education
Complete an approved three-hour refresher course; an approved six-hour course also satisfies this requirement.
Education proof
Attach proof of completion of an approved course; the certificate is valid for two years from issuance (2 CCR 20800.5).
Exam timing
CPS recommends taking the examination at least six months before commission expiration to avoid a break; the one-year result validity remains applicable.
Government service
Act for and on behalf of the governmental entity. The employer may pay bond and supplies; fees are remitted to it when the statutory employer-paid bond and fee-free filing conditions apply.
Minimum age
At least 18 years old.
Passing result
Pass the California Notary Public Examination with a scaled score of at least 70; results remain valid for one year from the examination (2 CCR 20803).
Prior commission
Hold a current California commission and previously complete the approved six-hour course; take the exam and submit the application before the current commission expires to use the refresher certificate.
Public employment
Be an employee of the state, a city, a county or a public school district; an authorized employer representative certifies that the appointment is for the employing governmental entity.
Qualification
Within 30 calendar days of the beginning of the commissioned term, file an oath and a $15,000 surety bond in the county of the principal place of business; the commission takes effect only upon timely filing.
Residence
Legal California resident, except the military-reservation appointment governed by Government Code section 8203.1.
Petition for reinstatement of a suspended commission with more than six months remaining
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Exam boundary
The 2012 guidelines require new-commission examination qualifications for revoked commissions or suspended commissions expiring within six months; this route restores the existing term and has no identified examination requirement. Any case-specific order remains an applicant condition.
Government service
Act for and on behalf of the governmental entity. The employer may pay bond and supplies; fees are remitted to it when the statutory employer-paid bond and fee-free filing conditions apply.
Petition wait
At least one year after the decision or denial of a similar petition.
Public employment
Be an employee of the state, a city, a county or a public school district; an authorized employer representative certifies that the appointment is for the employing governmental entity.
Rehabilitation
Demonstrate rehabilitation and necessary current qualifications and skills; the Secretary of State decides the petition and may impose terms reasonably appropriate to reinstatement.
Suspended commission
The suspended commission remains in force as a term, with more than six months remaining when the Secretary of State receives the petition; it has not been revoked.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reinstatement treated as a request for a new commission
California Notary Public Examination
Application
Submit the completed notary application and a 2 by 2 inch color passport photograph at the exam site; the application is processed by the Secretary of State after a passing result.
Background check
Submit fingerprints for California DOJ and FBI review for each appointment; the Secretary of State determines honesty, credibility, truthfulness and integrity and reviews pending arrests and all convictions, including dismissed convictions.
Child support
A child-support certified-list entry affects full-term issuance and continued commission status under Family Code section 17520; an otherwise eligible applicant receives the temporary term described separately.
Disciplinary history
The commission was revoked, or suspended and expired or would expire within six months after receipt of the petition.
Education
Meet the applicable six-hour initial or three-hour unexpired-commission refresher education requirements.
Education proof
Attach proof of completion of an approved course; the certificate is valid for two years from issuance (2 CCR 20800.5).
Government service
Act for and on behalf of the governmental entity. The employer may pay bond and supplies; fees are remitted to it when the statutory employer-paid bond and fee-free filing conditions apply.
Minimum age
At least 18 years old.
New commission requirements
If granted, submit a notary application, photograph and fee, and meet Government Code sections 8201 and 8201.1 and 2 CCR sections 20800.5 and 20803; the currently offered written examination is a leaf even when an existing valid passing result meets that requirement.
Passing result
Pass the California Notary Public Examination with a scaled score of at least 70; results remain valid for one year from the examination (2 CCR 20803).
Petition
File a reinstatement petition and demonstrate rehabilitation and current qualifications; reinstatement is discretionary and subject to the individual order.
Petition wait
At least one year must elapse after the disciplinary decision or denial of a similar petition.
Public employment
Be an employee of the state, a city, a county or a public school district; an authorized employer representative certifies that the appointment is for the employing governmental entity.
Qualification
Within 30 calendar days of the beginning of the commissioned term, file an oath and a $15,000 surety bond in the county of the principal place of business; the commission takes effect only upon timely filing.
Residence
Legal California resident, except the military-reservation appointment governed by Government Code section 8203.1.
Initial appointment by examination
California Notary Public Examination
Application
Submit the completed notary application and a 2 by 2 inch color passport photograph at the exam site; the application is processed by the Secretary of State after a passing result.
Background check
Submit fingerprints for California DOJ and FBI review for each appointment; the Secretary of State determines honesty, credibility, truthfulness and integrity and reviews pending arrests and all convictions, including dismissed convictions.
Child support
A child-support certified-list entry affects full-term issuance and continued commission status under Family Code section 17520; an otherwise eligible applicant receives the temporary term described separately.
Education
Complete an approved six-hour notary public education course.
Education proof
Attach proof of completion of an approved course; the certificate is valid for two years from issuance (2 CCR 20800.5).
Government service
Act for and on behalf of the governmental entity. The employer may pay bond and supplies; fees are remitted to it when the statutory employer-paid bond and fee-free filing conditions apply.
Minimum age
At least 18 years old.
Passing result
Pass the California Notary Public Examination with a scaled score of at least 70; results remain valid for one year from the examination (2 CCR 20803).
Public employment
Be an employee of the state, a city, a county or a public school district; an authorized employer representative certifies that the appointment is for the employing governmental entity.
Qualification
Within 30 calendar days of the beginning of the commissioned term, file an oath and a $15,000 surety bond in the county of the principal place of business; the commission takes effect only upon timely filing.
Residence
Legal California resident, except the military-reservation appointment governed by Government Code section 8203.1.
Reappointment after a commission has expired
California Notary Public Examination
Application
Submit the completed notary application and a 2 by 2 inch color passport photograph at the exam site; the application is processed by the Secretary of State after a passing result.
Background check
Submit fingerprints for California DOJ and FBI review for each appointment; the Secretary of State determines honesty, credibility, truthfulness and integrity and reviews pending arrests and all convictions, including dismissed convictions.
Child support
A child-support certified-list entry affects full-term issuance and continued commission status under Family Code section 17520; an otherwise eligible applicant receives the temporary term described separately.
Education
Complete an approved six-hour course before the new appointment.
Education proof
Attach proof of completion of an approved course; the certificate is valid for two years from issuance (2 CCR 20800.5).
Government service
Act for and on behalf of the governmental entity. The employer may pay bond and supplies; fees are remitted to it when the statutory employer-paid bond and fee-free filing conditions apply.
Minimum age
At least 18 years old.
Passing result
Pass the California Notary Public Examination with a scaled score of at least 70; results remain valid for one year from the examination (2 CCR 20803).
Prior commission
The previous California commission has expired; prior terms and a prior three-hour course do not satisfy the new education requirement.
Public employment
Be an employee of the state, a city, a county or a public school district; an authorized employer representative certifies that the appointment is for the employing governmental entity.
Qualification
Within 30 calendar days of the beginning of the commissioned term, file an oath and a $15,000 surety bond in the county of the principal place of business; the commission takes effect only upon timely filing.
Residence
Legal California resident, except the military-reservation appointment governed by Government Code section 8203.1.
New appointment after failing to timely qualify a commission
California Notary Public Examination
Application
Submit the completed notary application and a 2 by 2 inch color passport photograph at the exam site; the application is processed by the Secretary of State after a passing result.
Background check
Submit fingerprints for California DOJ and FBI review for each appointment; the Secretary of State determines honesty, credibility, truthfulness and integrity and reviews pending arrests and all convictions, including dismissed convictions.
Child support
A child-support certified-list entry affects full-term issuance and continued commission status under Family Code section 17520; an otherwise eligible applicant receives the temporary term described separately.
Education
Attach current six-hour proof; a three-hour refresher certificate no longer suffices after the previous commission expires.
Education proof
Attach proof of completion of an approved course; the certificate is valid for two years from issuance (2 CCR 20800.5).
Government service
Act for and on behalf of the governmental entity. The employer may pay bond and supplies; fees are remitted to it when the statutory employer-paid bond and fee-free filing conditions apply.
Minimum age
At least 18 years old.
Missed deadline
The issued commission did not take effect because the oath and bond were not filed within 30 days; apply again and qualify the new appointment.
New application
Submit a new application, photograph, $20 application fee and new Live Scan fingerprints.
Passing result
The currently offered examination remains involved even when the applicant already passed it; a result still valid under 2 CCR 20803 may be used. No new examination is asserted while that result remains valid.
Public employment
Be an employee of the state, a city, a county or a public school district; an authorized employer representative certifies that the appointment is for the employing governmental entity.
Qualification
Within 30 calendar days of the beginning of the commissioned term, file an oath and a $15,000 surety bond in the county of the principal place of business; the commission takes effect only upon timely filing.
Residence
Legal California resident, except the military-reservation appointment governed by Government Code section 8203.1.
Resumption after completion of a fixed disciplinary suspension
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Disciplinary order
Comply with the actual order and any imposed terms; a revoked, expired or canceled commission cannot resume by passage of the suspension period.
Government service
Act for and on behalf of the governmental entity. The employer may pay bond and supplies; fees are remitted to it when the statutory employer-paid bond and fee-free filing conditions apply.
Monitoring
The Secretary of State may request certified journal copies covering the suspension and surrounding periods to check compliance.
Public employment
Be an employee of the state, a city, a county or a public school district; an authorized employer representative certifies that the appointment is for the employing governmental entity.
Suspension
The fixed suspension period has ended and the existing commissioned term remains unexpired.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Full or remainder of term commission following release of a temporary commission
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Government service
Act for and on behalf of the governmental entity. The employer may pay bond and supplies; fees are remitted to it when the statutory employer-paid bond and fee-free filing conditions apply.
Public employment
Be an employee of the state, a city, a county or a public school district; an authorized employer representative certifies that the appointment is for the employing governmental entity.
Release
The full or remaining regular commissioned term is issued upon compliance with Family Code section 17520 as shown by the child-support agency release; this does not itself require a new examination.
Scope continuity
The original appointment qualifications and any government-employment or military-reservation limitations remain applicable.
Temporary commission
The applicant already qualified for the applicable commission form and received its temporary 150-day term under Family Code section 17520.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Notary Public

Limited commission for a federal civil-service employee at a military or naval reservation in California, under Government Code sections 8203.1-8203.6.

Licensing authority: California Secretary of State · Application information

Amended commission following a legal name change
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Amended qualification
File a new oath and a bond amendment within 30 days of the amended commission, then obtain a seal reflecting the new name within 30 days of filing; the amendment takes effect upon timely filing.
Citizenship
United States citizen at least 18 years old; section 8203.1 replaces the California residency requirement.
Employment end
Appointment terminates when federal civil-service employment at the reservation ends; termination is treated as resignation.
Existing commission
Hold the existing commission; submit the name-change application to the Secretary of State.
Federal employment
Be a federal civil-service employee at the reservation where the notary will act.
Identity continuity
The commission term and commission number remain the same.
Recommendation
Appointment requires recommendation by the reservation commanding officer.
Reservation limit
Act only within the reservation; collect no notarial fees for service rendered there.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reinstatement during the existing term following child support release
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Citizenship
United States citizen at least 18 years old; section 8203.1 replaces the California residency requirement.
Employment end
Appointment terminates when federal civil-service employment at the reservation ends; termination is treated as resignation.
Existing term
The commission was suspended for child-support noncompliance and the commissioned term has not expired.
Federal employment
Be a federal civil-service employee at the reservation where the notary will act.
Recommendation
Appointment requires recommendation by the reservation commanding officer.
Release
The Secretary of State must receive the child-support agency release and any applicable reinstatement applications and fees before reinstating the commission for the remaining term.
Reservation limit
Act only within the reservation; collect no notarial fees for service rendered there.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reappointment with an unexpired California commission
California Notary Public Examination
Application
Submit the completed notary application and a 2 by 2 inch color passport photograph at the exam site; the application is processed by the Secretary of State after a passing result.
Background check
Submit fingerprints for California DOJ and FBI review for each appointment; the Secretary of State determines honesty, credibility, truthfulness and integrity and reviews pending arrests and all convictions, including dismissed convictions.
Child support
A child-support certified-list entry affects full-term issuance and continued commission status under Family Code section 17520; an otherwise eligible applicant receives the temporary term described separately.
Citizenship
United States citizen at least 18 years old; section 8203.1 replaces the California residency requirement.
Education
Complete an approved three-hour refresher course; an approved six-hour course also satisfies this requirement.
Education proof
Attach proof of completion of an approved course; the certificate is valid for two years from issuance (2 CCR 20800.5).
Employment end
Appointment terminates when federal civil-service employment at the reservation ends; termination is treated as resignation.
Exam timing
CPS recommends taking the examination at least six months before commission expiration to avoid a break; the one-year result validity remains applicable.
Federal employment
Be a federal civil-service employee at the reservation where the notary will act.
Minimum age
At least 18 years old.
Passing result
Pass the California Notary Public Examination with a scaled score of at least 70; results remain valid for one year from the examination (2 CCR 20803).
Prior commission
Hold a current California commission and previously complete the approved six-hour course; take the exam and submit the application before the current commission expires to use the refresher certificate.
Qualification
Within 30 calendar days of the beginning of the commissioned term, file an oath and a $15,000 surety bond in the county of the principal place of business; the commission takes effect only upon timely filing.
Recommendation
Appointment requires recommendation by the reservation commanding officer.
Reservation limit
Act only within the reservation; collect no notarial fees for service rendered there.
Residence
California residency is not required by the reservation appointment exception in Government Code sections 8201(a)(1) and 8203.1; United States citizenship is required.
Petition for reinstatement of a suspended commission with more than six months remaining
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Citizenship
United States citizen at least 18 years old; section 8203.1 replaces the California residency requirement.
Employment end
Appointment terminates when federal civil-service employment at the reservation ends; termination is treated as resignation.
Exam boundary
The 2012 guidelines require new-commission examination qualifications for revoked commissions or suspended commissions expiring within six months; this route restores the existing term and has no identified examination requirement. Any case-specific order remains an applicant condition.
Federal employment
Be a federal civil-service employee at the reservation where the notary will act.
Petition wait
At least one year after the decision or denial of a similar petition.
Recommendation
Appointment requires recommendation by the reservation commanding officer.
Rehabilitation
Demonstrate rehabilitation and necessary current qualifications and skills; the Secretary of State decides the petition and may impose terms reasonably appropriate to reinstatement.
Reservation limit
Act only within the reservation; collect no notarial fees for service rendered there.
Suspended commission
The suspended commission remains in force as a term, with more than six months remaining when the Secretary of State receives the petition; it has not been revoked.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reinstatement treated as a request for a new commission
California Notary Public Examination
Application
Submit the completed notary application and a 2 by 2 inch color passport photograph at the exam site; the application is processed by the Secretary of State after a passing result.
Background check
Submit fingerprints for California DOJ and FBI review for each appointment; the Secretary of State determines honesty, credibility, truthfulness and integrity and reviews pending arrests and all convictions, including dismissed convictions.
Child support
A child-support certified-list entry affects full-term issuance and continued commission status under Family Code section 17520; an otherwise eligible applicant receives the temporary term described separately.
Citizenship
United States citizen at least 18 years old; section 8203.1 replaces the California residency requirement.
Disciplinary history
The commission was revoked, or suspended and expired or would expire within six months after receipt of the petition.
Education
Meet the applicable six-hour initial or three-hour unexpired-commission refresher education requirements.
Education proof
Attach proof of completion of an approved course; the certificate is valid for two years from issuance (2 CCR 20800.5).
Employment end
Appointment terminates when federal civil-service employment at the reservation ends; termination is treated as resignation.
Federal employment
Be a federal civil-service employee at the reservation where the notary will act.
Minimum age
At least 18 years old.
New commission requirements
If granted, submit a notary application, photograph and fee, and meet Government Code sections 8201 and 8201.1 and 2 CCR sections 20800.5 and 20803; the currently offered written examination is a leaf even when an existing valid passing result meets that requirement.
Passing result
Pass the California Notary Public Examination with a scaled score of at least 70; results remain valid for one year from the examination (2 CCR 20803).
Petition
File a reinstatement petition and demonstrate rehabilitation and current qualifications; reinstatement is discretionary and subject to the individual order.
Petition wait
At least one year must elapse after the disciplinary decision or denial of a similar petition.
Qualification
Within 30 calendar days of the beginning of the commissioned term, file an oath and a $15,000 surety bond in the county of the principal place of business; the commission takes effect only upon timely filing.
Recommendation
Appointment requires recommendation by the reservation commanding officer.
Reservation limit
Act only within the reservation; collect no notarial fees for service rendered there.
Residence
California residency is not required by the reservation appointment exception in Government Code sections 8201(a)(1) and 8203.1; United States citizenship is required.
Initial appointment by examination
California Notary Public Examination
Application
Submit the completed notary application and a 2 by 2 inch color passport photograph at the exam site; the application is processed by the Secretary of State after a passing result.
Background check
Submit fingerprints for California DOJ and FBI review for each appointment; the Secretary of State determines honesty, credibility, truthfulness and integrity and reviews pending arrests and all convictions, including dismissed convictions.
Child support
A child-support certified-list entry affects full-term issuance and continued commission status under Family Code section 17520; an otherwise eligible applicant receives the temporary term described separately.
Citizenship
United States citizen at least 18 years old; section 8203.1 replaces the California residency requirement.
Education
Complete an approved six-hour notary public education course.
Education proof
Attach proof of completion of an approved course; the certificate is valid for two years from issuance (2 CCR 20800.5).
Employment end
Appointment terminates when federal civil-service employment at the reservation ends; termination is treated as resignation.
Federal employment
Be a federal civil-service employee at the reservation where the notary will act.
Minimum age
At least 18 years old.
Passing result
Pass the California Notary Public Examination with a scaled score of at least 70; results remain valid for one year from the examination (2 CCR 20803).
Qualification
Within 30 calendar days of the beginning of the commissioned term, file an oath and a $15,000 surety bond in the county of the principal place of business; the commission takes effect only upon timely filing.
Recommendation
Appointment requires recommendation by the reservation commanding officer.
Reservation limit
Act only within the reservation; collect no notarial fees for service rendered there.
Residence
California residency is not required by the reservation appointment exception in Government Code sections 8201(a)(1) and 8203.1; United States citizenship is required.
Reappointment after a commission has expired
California Notary Public Examination
Application
Submit the completed notary application and a 2 by 2 inch color passport photograph at the exam site; the application is processed by the Secretary of State after a passing result.
Background check
Submit fingerprints for California DOJ and FBI review for each appointment; the Secretary of State determines honesty, credibility, truthfulness and integrity and reviews pending arrests and all convictions, including dismissed convictions.
Child support
A child-support certified-list entry affects full-term issuance and continued commission status under Family Code section 17520; an otherwise eligible applicant receives the temporary term described separately.
Citizenship
United States citizen at least 18 years old; section 8203.1 replaces the California residency requirement.
Education
Complete an approved six-hour course before the new appointment.
Education proof
Attach proof of completion of an approved course; the certificate is valid for two years from issuance (2 CCR 20800.5).
Employment end
Appointment terminates when federal civil-service employment at the reservation ends; termination is treated as resignation.
Federal employment
Be a federal civil-service employee at the reservation where the notary will act.
Minimum age
At least 18 years old.
Passing result
Pass the California Notary Public Examination with a scaled score of at least 70; results remain valid for one year from the examination (2 CCR 20803).
Prior commission
The previous California commission has expired; prior terms and a prior three-hour course do not satisfy the new education requirement.
Qualification
Within 30 calendar days of the beginning of the commissioned term, file an oath and a $15,000 surety bond in the county of the principal place of business; the commission takes effect only upon timely filing.
Recommendation
Appointment requires recommendation by the reservation commanding officer.
Reservation limit
Act only within the reservation; collect no notarial fees for service rendered there.
Residence
California residency is not required by the reservation appointment exception in Government Code sections 8201(a)(1) and 8203.1; United States citizenship is required.
New appointment after failing to timely qualify a commission
California Notary Public Examination
Application
Submit the completed notary application and a 2 by 2 inch color passport photograph at the exam site; the application is processed by the Secretary of State after a passing result.
Background check
Submit fingerprints for California DOJ and FBI review for each appointment; the Secretary of State determines honesty, credibility, truthfulness and integrity and reviews pending arrests and all convictions, including dismissed convictions.
Child support
A child-support certified-list entry affects full-term issuance and continued commission status under Family Code section 17520; an otherwise eligible applicant receives the temporary term described separately.
Citizenship
United States citizen at least 18 years old; section 8203.1 replaces the California residency requirement.
Education
Attach current six-hour proof; a three-hour refresher certificate no longer suffices after the previous commission expires.
Education proof
Attach proof of completion of an approved course; the certificate is valid for two years from issuance (2 CCR 20800.5).
Employment end
Appointment terminates when federal civil-service employment at the reservation ends; termination is treated as resignation.
Federal employment
Be a federal civil-service employee at the reservation where the notary will act.
Minimum age
At least 18 years old.
Missed deadline
The issued commission did not take effect because the oath and bond were not filed within 30 days; apply again and qualify the new appointment.
New application
Submit a new application, photograph, $20 application fee and new Live Scan fingerprints.
Passing result
The currently offered examination remains involved even when the applicant already passed it; a result still valid under 2 CCR 20803 may be used. No new examination is asserted while that result remains valid.
Qualification
Within 30 calendar days of the beginning of the commissioned term, file an oath and a $15,000 surety bond in the county of the principal place of business; the commission takes effect only upon timely filing.
Recommendation
Appointment requires recommendation by the reservation commanding officer.
Reservation limit
Act only within the reservation; collect no notarial fees for service rendered there.
Residence
California residency is not required by the reservation appointment exception in Government Code sections 8201(a)(1) and 8203.1; United States citizenship is required.
Resumption after completion of a fixed disciplinary suspension
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Citizenship
United States citizen at least 18 years old; section 8203.1 replaces the California residency requirement.
Disciplinary order
Comply with the actual order and any imposed terms; a revoked, expired or canceled commission cannot resume by passage of the suspension period.
Employment end
Appointment terminates when federal civil-service employment at the reservation ends; termination is treated as resignation.
Federal employment
Be a federal civil-service employee at the reservation where the notary will act.
Monitoring
The Secretary of State may request certified journal copies covering the suspension and surrounding periods to check compliance.
Recommendation
Appointment requires recommendation by the reservation commanding officer.
Reservation limit
Act only within the reservation; collect no notarial fees for service rendered there.
Suspension
The fixed suspension period has ended and the existing commissioned term remains unexpired.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Full or remainder of term commission following release of a temporary commission
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Citizenship
United States citizen at least 18 years old; section 8203.1 replaces the California residency requirement.
Employment end
Appointment terminates when federal civil-service employment at the reservation ends; termination is treated as resignation.
Federal employment
Be a federal civil-service employee at the reservation where the notary will act.
Recommendation
Appointment requires recommendation by the reservation commanding officer.
Release
The full or remaining regular commissioned term is issued upon compliance with Family Code section 17520 as shown by the child-support agency release; this does not itself require a new examination.
Reservation limit
Act only within the reservation; collect no notarial fees for service rendered there.
Scope continuity
The original appointment qualifications and any government-employment or military-reservation limitations remain applicable.
Temporary commission
The applicant already qualified for the applicable commission form and received its temporary 150-day term under Family Code section 17520.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Notary Public

Ordinary statewide four-year commission.

Licensing authority: California Secretary of State · Application information

Amended commission following a legal name change
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Amended qualification
File a new oath and a bond amendment within 30 days of the amended commission, then obtain a seal reflecting the new name within 30 days of filing; the amendment takes effect upon timely filing.
Existing commission
Hold the existing commission; submit the name-change application to the Secretary of State.
Identity continuity
The commission term and commission number remain the same.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reinstatement during the existing term following child support release
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Existing term
The commission was suspended for child-support noncompliance and the commissioned term has not expired.
Release
The Secretary of State must receive the child-support agency release and any applicable reinstatement applications and fees before reinstating the commission for the remaining term.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reappointment with an unexpired California commission
California Notary Public Examination
Application
Submit the completed notary application and a 2 by 2 inch color passport photograph at the exam site; the application is processed by the Secretary of State after a passing result.
Background check
Submit fingerprints for California DOJ and FBI review for each appointment; the Secretary of State determines honesty, credibility, truthfulness and integrity and reviews pending arrests and all convictions, including dismissed convictions.
Child support
A child-support certified-list entry affects full-term issuance and continued commission status under Family Code section 17520; an otherwise eligible applicant receives the temporary term described separately.
Education
Complete an approved three-hour refresher course; an approved six-hour course also satisfies this requirement.
Education proof
Attach proof of completion of an approved course; the certificate is valid for two years from issuance (2 CCR 20800.5).
Exam timing
CPS recommends taking the examination at least six months before commission expiration to avoid a break; the one-year result validity remains applicable.
Minimum age
At least 18 years old.
Passing result
Pass the California Notary Public Examination with a scaled score of at least 70; results remain valid for one year from the examination (2 CCR 20803).
Prior commission
Hold a current California commission and previously complete the approved six-hour course; take the exam and submit the application before the current commission expires to use the refresher certificate.
Qualification
Within 30 calendar days of the beginning of the commissioned term, file an oath and a $15,000 surety bond in the county of the principal place of business; the commission takes effect only upon timely filing.
Residence
Legal California resident, except the military-reservation appointment governed by Government Code section 8203.1.
Petition for reinstatement of a suspended commission with more than six months remaining
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Exam boundary
The 2012 guidelines require new-commission examination qualifications for revoked commissions or suspended commissions expiring within six months; this route restores the existing term and has no identified examination requirement. Any case-specific order remains an applicant condition.
Petition wait
At least one year after the decision or denial of a similar petition.
Rehabilitation
Demonstrate rehabilitation and necessary current qualifications and skills; the Secretary of State decides the petition and may impose terms reasonably appropriate to reinstatement.
Suspended commission
The suspended commission remains in force as a term, with more than six months remaining when the Secretary of State receives the petition; it has not been revoked.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reinstatement treated as a request for a new commission
California Notary Public Examination
Application
Submit the completed notary application and a 2 by 2 inch color passport photograph at the exam site; the application is processed by the Secretary of State after a passing result.
Background check
Submit fingerprints for California DOJ and FBI review for each appointment; the Secretary of State determines honesty, credibility, truthfulness and integrity and reviews pending arrests and all convictions, including dismissed convictions.
Child support
A child-support certified-list entry affects full-term issuance and continued commission status under Family Code section 17520; an otherwise eligible applicant receives the temporary term described separately.
Disciplinary history
The commission was revoked, or suspended and expired or would expire within six months after receipt of the petition.
Education
Meet the applicable six-hour initial or three-hour unexpired-commission refresher education requirements.
Education proof
Attach proof of completion of an approved course; the certificate is valid for two years from issuance (2 CCR 20800.5).
Minimum age
At least 18 years old.
New commission requirements
If granted, submit a notary application, photograph and fee, and meet Government Code sections 8201 and 8201.1 and 2 CCR sections 20800.5 and 20803; the currently offered written examination is a leaf even when an existing valid passing result meets that requirement.
Passing result
Pass the California Notary Public Examination with a scaled score of at least 70; results remain valid for one year from the examination (2 CCR 20803).
Petition
File a reinstatement petition and demonstrate rehabilitation and current qualifications; reinstatement is discretionary and subject to the individual order.
Petition wait
At least one year must elapse after the disciplinary decision or denial of a similar petition.
Qualification
Within 30 calendar days of the beginning of the commissioned term, file an oath and a $15,000 surety bond in the county of the principal place of business; the commission takes effect only upon timely filing.
Residence
Legal California resident, except the military-reservation appointment governed by Government Code section 8203.1.
Initial appointment by examination
California Notary Public Examination
Application
Submit the completed notary application and a 2 by 2 inch color passport photograph at the exam site; the application is processed by the Secretary of State after a passing result.
Background check
Submit fingerprints for California DOJ and FBI review for each appointment; the Secretary of State determines honesty, credibility, truthfulness and integrity and reviews pending arrests and all convictions, including dismissed convictions.
Child support
A child-support certified-list entry affects full-term issuance and continued commission status under Family Code section 17520; an otherwise eligible applicant receives the temporary term described separately.
Education
Complete an approved six-hour notary public education course.
Education proof
Attach proof of completion of an approved course; the certificate is valid for two years from issuance (2 CCR 20800.5).
Minimum age
At least 18 years old.
Passing result
Pass the California Notary Public Examination with a scaled score of at least 70; results remain valid for one year from the examination (2 CCR 20803).
Qualification
Within 30 calendar days of the beginning of the commissioned term, file an oath and a $15,000 surety bond in the county of the principal place of business; the commission takes effect only upon timely filing.
Residence
Legal California resident, except the military-reservation appointment governed by Government Code section 8203.1.
Reappointment after a commission has expired
California Notary Public Examination
Application
Submit the completed notary application and a 2 by 2 inch color passport photograph at the exam site; the application is processed by the Secretary of State after a passing result.
Background check
Submit fingerprints for California DOJ and FBI review for each appointment; the Secretary of State determines honesty, credibility, truthfulness and integrity and reviews pending arrests and all convictions, including dismissed convictions.
Child support
A child-support certified-list entry affects full-term issuance and continued commission status under Family Code section 17520; an otherwise eligible applicant receives the temporary term described separately.
Education
Complete an approved six-hour course before the new appointment.
Education proof
Attach proof of completion of an approved course; the certificate is valid for two years from issuance (2 CCR 20800.5).
Minimum age
At least 18 years old.
Passing result
Pass the California Notary Public Examination with a scaled score of at least 70; results remain valid for one year from the examination (2 CCR 20803).
Prior commission
The previous California commission has expired; prior terms and a prior three-hour course do not satisfy the new education requirement.
Qualification
Within 30 calendar days of the beginning of the commissioned term, file an oath and a $15,000 surety bond in the county of the principal place of business; the commission takes effect only upon timely filing.
Residence
Legal California resident, except the military-reservation appointment governed by Government Code section 8203.1.
New appointment after failing to timely qualify a commission
California Notary Public Examination
Application
Submit the completed notary application and a 2 by 2 inch color passport photograph at the exam site; the application is processed by the Secretary of State after a passing result.
Background check
Submit fingerprints for California DOJ and FBI review for each appointment; the Secretary of State determines honesty, credibility, truthfulness and integrity and reviews pending arrests and all convictions, including dismissed convictions.
Child support
A child-support certified-list entry affects full-term issuance and continued commission status under Family Code section 17520; an otherwise eligible applicant receives the temporary term described separately.
Education
Attach current six-hour proof; a three-hour refresher certificate no longer suffices after the previous commission expires.
Education proof
Attach proof of completion of an approved course; the certificate is valid for two years from issuance (2 CCR 20800.5).
Minimum age
At least 18 years old.
Missed deadline
The issued commission did not take effect because the oath and bond were not filed within 30 days; apply again and qualify the new appointment.
New application
Submit a new application, photograph, $20 application fee and new Live Scan fingerprints.
Passing result
The currently offered examination remains involved even when the applicant already passed it; a result still valid under 2 CCR 20803 may be used. No new examination is asserted while that result remains valid.
Qualification
Within 30 calendar days of the beginning of the commissioned term, file an oath and a $15,000 surety bond in the county of the principal place of business; the commission takes effect only upon timely filing.
Residence
Legal California resident, except the military-reservation appointment governed by Government Code section 8203.1.
Resumption after completion of a fixed disciplinary suspension
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Disciplinary order
Comply with the actual order and any imposed terms; a revoked, expired or canceled commission cannot resume by passage of the suspension period.
Monitoring
The Secretary of State may request certified journal copies covering the suspension and surrounding periods to check compliance.
Suspension
The fixed suspension period has ended and the existing commissioned term remains unexpired.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Full or remainder of term commission following release of a temporary commission
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Release
The full or remaining regular commissioned term is issued upon compliance with Family Code section 17520 as shown by the child-support agency release; this does not itself require a new examination.
Scope continuity
The original appointment qualifications and any government-employment or military-reservation limitations remain applicable.
Temporary commission
The applicant already qualified for the applicable commission form and received its temporary 150-day term under Family Code section 17520.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Temporary Term Notary Public Commission

Temporary 150-day commission for an otherwise eligible applicant on the child-support certified list.

Licensing authority: California Secretary of State · Application information

Amended commission following a legal name change
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Amended qualification
File a new oath and a bond amendment within 30 days of the amended commission, then obtain a seal reflecting the new name within 30 days of filing; the amendment takes effect upon timely filing.
Existing commission
Hold the existing commission; submit the name-change application to the Secretary of State.
Full term release
The full or remaining regular term requires a child-support release; see the full-term issuance route of the applicable commission form.
Identity continuity
The commission term and commission number remain the same.
Temporary eligibility
Appear on the child-support certified list and otherwise meet the applicable notary appointment requirements.
Temporary term
Only one temporary commission in a regular license term, coinciding with its first 150 days; the notary temporary term cannot be extended under the driver-only exception.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reappointment with an unexpired California commission
California Notary Public Examination
Application
Submit the completed notary application and a 2 by 2 inch color passport photograph at the exam site; the application is processed by the Secretary of State after a passing result.
Background check
Submit fingerprints for California DOJ and FBI review for each appointment; the Secretary of State determines honesty, credibility, truthfulness and integrity and reviews pending arrests and all convictions, including dismissed convictions.
Child support
A child-support certified-list entry affects full-term issuance and continued commission status under Family Code section 17520; an otherwise eligible applicant receives the temporary term described separately.
Education
Complete an approved three-hour refresher course; an approved six-hour course also satisfies this requirement.
Education proof
Attach proof of completion of an approved course; the certificate is valid for two years from issuance (2 CCR 20800.5).
Exam timing
CPS recommends taking the examination at least six months before commission expiration to avoid a break; the one-year result validity remains applicable.
Full term release
The full or remaining regular term requires a child-support release; see the full-term issuance route of the applicable commission form.
Minimum age
At least 18 years old.
Passing result
Pass the California Notary Public Examination with a scaled score of at least 70; results remain valid for one year from the examination (2 CCR 20803).
Prior commission
Hold a current California commission and previously complete the approved six-hour course; take the exam and submit the application before the current commission expires to use the refresher certificate.
Qualification
Within 30 calendar days of the beginning of the commissioned term, file an oath and a $15,000 surety bond in the county of the principal place of business; the commission takes effect only upon timely filing.
Residence
Legal California resident, except the military-reservation appointment governed by Government Code section 8203.1.
Temporary eligibility
Appear on the child-support certified list and otherwise meet the applicable notary appointment requirements.
Temporary term
Only one temporary commission in a regular license term, coinciding with its first 150 days; the notary temporary term cannot be extended under the driver-only exception.
Reinstatement treated as a request for a new commission
California Notary Public Examination
Application
Submit the completed notary application and a 2 by 2 inch color passport photograph at the exam site; the application is processed by the Secretary of State after a passing result.
Background check
Submit fingerprints for California DOJ and FBI review for each appointment; the Secretary of State determines honesty, credibility, truthfulness and integrity and reviews pending arrests and all convictions, including dismissed convictions.
Child support
A child-support certified-list entry affects full-term issuance and continued commission status under Family Code section 17520; an otherwise eligible applicant receives the temporary term described separately.
Disciplinary history
The commission was revoked, or suspended and expired or would expire within six months after receipt of the petition.
Education
Meet the applicable six-hour initial or three-hour unexpired-commission refresher education requirements.
Education proof
Attach proof of completion of an approved course; the certificate is valid for two years from issuance (2 CCR 20800.5).
Full term release
The full or remaining regular term requires a child-support release; see the full-term issuance route of the applicable commission form.
Minimum age
At least 18 years old.
New commission requirements
If granted, submit a notary application, photograph and fee, and meet Government Code sections 8201 and 8201.1 and 2 CCR sections 20800.5 and 20803; the currently offered written examination is a leaf even when an existing valid passing result meets that requirement.
Passing result
Pass the California Notary Public Examination with a scaled score of at least 70; results remain valid for one year from the examination (2 CCR 20803).
Petition
File a reinstatement petition and demonstrate rehabilitation and current qualifications; reinstatement is discretionary and subject to the individual order.
Petition wait
At least one year must elapse after the disciplinary decision or denial of a similar petition.
Qualification
Within 30 calendar days of the beginning of the commissioned term, file an oath and a $15,000 surety bond in the county of the principal place of business; the commission takes effect only upon timely filing.
Residence
Legal California resident, except the military-reservation appointment governed by Government Code section 8203.1.
Temporary eligibility
Appear on the child-support certified list and otherwise meet the applicable notary appointment requirements.
Temporary term
Only one temporary commission in a regular license term, coinciding with its first 150 days; the notary temporary term cannot be extended under the driver-only exception.
Initial appointment by examination
California Notary Public Examination
Application
Submit the completed notary application and a 2 by 2 inch color passport photograph at the exam site; the application is processed by the Secretary of State after a passing result.
Background check
Submit fingerprints for California DOJ and FBI review for each appointment; the Secretary of State determines honesty, credibility, truthfulness and integrity and reviews pending arrests and all convictions, including dismissed convictions.
Child support
A child-support certified-list entry affects full-term issuance and continued commission status under Family Code section 17520; an otherwise eligible applicant receives the temporary term described separately.
Education
Complete an approved six-hour notary public education course.
Education proof
Attach proof of completion of an approved course; the certificate is valid for two years from issuance (2 CCR 20800.5).
Full term release
The full or remaining regular term requires a child-support release; see the full-term issuance route of the applicable commission form.
Minimum age
At least 18 years old.
Passing result
Pass the California Notary Public Examination with a scaled score of at least 70; results remain valid for one year from the examination (2 CCR 20803).
Qualification
Within 30 calendar days of the beginning of the commissioned term, file an oath and a $15,000 surety bond in the county of the principal place of business; the commission takes effect only upon timely filing.
Residence
Legal California resident, except the military-reservation appointment governed by Government Code section 8203.1.
Temporary eligibility
Appear on the child-support certified list and otherwise meet the applicable notary appointment requirements.
Temporary term
Only one temporary commission in a regular license term, coinciding with its first 150 days; the notary temporary term cannot be extended under the driver-only exception.
Reappointment after a commission has expired
California Notary Public Examination
Application
Submit the completed notary application and a 2 by 2 inch color passport photograph at the exam site; the application is processed by the Secretary of State after a passing result.
Background check
Submit fingerprints for California DOJ and FBI review for each appointment; the Secretary of State determines honesty, credibility, truthfulness and integrity and reviews pending arrests and all convictions, including dismissed convictions.
Child support
A child-support certified-list entry affects full-term issuance and continued commission status under Family Code section 17520; an otherwise eligible applicant receives the temporary term described separately.
Education
Complete an approved six-hour course before the new appointment.
Education proof
Attach proof of completion of an approved course; the certificate is valid for two years from issuance (2 CCR 20800.5).
Full term release
The full or remaining regular term requires a child-support release; see the full-term issuance route of the applicable commission form.
Minimum age
At least 18 years old.
Passing result
Pass the California Notary Public Examination with a scaled score of at least 70; results remain valid for one year from the examination (2 CCR 20803).
Prior commission
The previous California commission has expired; prior terms and a prior three-hour course do not satisfy the new education requirement.
Qualification
Within 30 calendar days of the beginning of the commissioned term, file an oath and a $15,000 surety bond in the county of the principal place of business; the commission takes effect only upon timely filing.
Residence
Legal California resident, except the military-reservation appointment governed by Government Code section 8203.1.
Temporary eligibility
Appear on the child-support certified list and otherwise meet the applicable notary appointment requirements.
Temporary term
Only one temporary commission in a regular license term, coinciding with its first 150 days; the notary temporary term cannot be extended under the driver-only exception.
New appointment after failing to timely qualify a commission
California Notary Public Examination
Application
Submit the completed notary application and a 2 by 2 inch color passport photograph at the exam site; the application is processed by the Secretary of State after a passing result.
Background check
Submit fingerprints for California DOJ and FBI review for each appointment; the Secretary of State determines honesty, credibility, truthfulness and integrity and reviews pending arrests and all convictions, including dismissed convictions.
Child support
A child-support certified-list entry affects full-term issuance and continued commission status under Family Code section 17520; an otherwise eligible applicant receives the temporary term described separately.
Education
Attach current six-hour proof; a three-hour refresher certificate no longer suffices after the previous commission expires.
Education proof
Attach proof of completion of an approved course; the certificate is valid for two years from issuance (2 CCR 20800.5).
Full term release
The full or remaining regular term requires a child-support release; see the full-term issuance route of the applicable commission form.
Minimum age
At least 18 years old.
Missed deadline
The issued commission did not take effect because the oath and bond were not filed within 30 days; apply again and qualify the new appointment.
New application
Submit a new application, photograph, $20 application fee and new Live Scan fingerprints.
Passing result
The currently offered examination remains involved even when the applicant already passed it; a result still valid under 2 CCR 20803 may be used. No new examination is asserted while that result remains valid.
Qualification
Within 30 calendar days of the beginning of the commissioned term, file an oath and a $15,000 surety bond in the county of the principal place of business; the commission takes effect only upon timely filing.
Residence
Legal California resident, except the military-reservation appointment governed by Government Code section 8203.1.
Temporary eligibility
Appear on the child-support certified list and otherwise meet the applicable notary appointment requirements.
Temporary term
Only one temporary commission in a regular license term, coinciding with its first 150 days; the notary temporary term cannot be extended under the driver-only exception.
Resumption after completion of a fixed disciplinary suspension
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Disciplinary order
Comply with the actual order and any imposed terms; a revoked, expired or canceled commission cannot resume by passage of the suspension period.
Full term release
The full or remaining regular term requires a child-support release; see the full-term issuance route of the applicable commission form.
Monitoring
The Secretary of State may request certified journal copies covering the suspension and surrounding periods to check compliance.
Suspension
The fixed suspension period has ended and the existing commissioned term remains unexpired.
Temporary eligibility
Appear on the child-support certified list and otherwise meet the applicable notary appointment requirements.
Temporary term
Only one temporary commission in a regular license term, coinciding with its first 150 days; the notary temporary term cannot be extended under the driver-only exception.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

California Notary Public Examination

Examination outline
  • Administrative Procedures
  • Notarial Acts/Documentation
  • Identification/Subscribing Witness Notarizations
  • Immigration/Foreign Language
  • Misconduct/Fees
Examination sources