What are the Steps to Become a Notary in California?

Introduction:

Becoming a Notary Public in California: A Rewarding Opportunity

Embarking on the journey to become a notary public in California is not just about starting a business; it’s about providing essential and convenient notary services in your community. Whether you’re aiming to offer traditional notary services in a fixed location or become a mobile notary, bringing your services directly to clients, understanding the process is crucial. Here’s my journey, packed with insights for those looking to follow a similar path.

Overview of Steps:

1. Complete the Approved Education
2. Register for the Exam
3. Take the Exam
4. Submit Fingerprints via Live Scan
5. Await Commission Packet
6. Purchase Notary Public Materials
7. File Notary Public Oath & Bond

Detailed Steps:

My journey to becoming a certified notary public in California began with a mandatory six-hour course from an approved vendor. This crucial step is your gateway into the world of notary services, laying the foundation for your future as a notary. Once you complete the course, you’ll receive a Proof of Completion certificate, allowing you to register for the notary exam through CPS HR Consulting.

For a comprehensive list of approved education vendors and additional steps after obtaining your Proof of Completion certificate, please refer to the Secretary of State’s website.

I opted for National Notary Association for my 6-hour class. They had an option that I could register to take the exam on the same day. I took this option since it worked best for me since the material I learned would be fresh on my mind. 

Post-exam, typically, results are communicated within 14 business days. For instance, after taking my exam on March 2, 2023, I eagerly awaited and finally received my positive results on March 22, 2023.

Meanwhile, acquiring your fingerprints via Live Scan is an essential step, to becoming a notary in California. Though the National Notary Association (NNA) offers convenient packages for photos and fingerprinting, I found that getting my photos at CVS and completing the Live Scan at a nearby location to my home worked best for me.

After passing the notary exam, regularly check the Secretary of State’s website for current processing times for applications and when you will get your commission package, which can take about 60 days.

I remember the excitement when I received my commission package in the mail. It marked a significant milestone in my journey to offering notary public services. I received my commission package on May 27, 2023.

Purchasing Notary Materials:

Upon receiving your commission package, it’s time to purchase essential materials for your notary public role. These include:

1. Notary Journal (I recommend the National Notary Association journal, available on Amazon). Link
2. Stamp from an approved vendor (consider getting two for convenience). You can find a list of approved vendors in your commission package.
3. Ink pad for thumbprints (available on Amazon). Link
4. Wipes to remove thumbprint ink for clients (also available on Amazon). Link
5. Black pens (available on Amazon). Link
6. A lockable bag for notary supplies (find one on Amazon). Link

Finalizing Your Notary Public Role:

The final step is to file your oath and secure your surety bond within 30 days of receiving your commission packet. You worked so hard to get to this point, make sure to follow all the requirements stated in your commission package. For my surety bond, I turned to the National Notary Association. For those in Orange County, CA, you can file your oath and surety bond at the Laguna Hills County Clerk’s office. 

Conclusion:

My journey to becoming a notary public in California has been incredibly fulfilling. If you need notary services or a mobile notary in the area, please feel free to reach out.