In California, becoming a notary public can be a fulfilling experience that enables you to serve your community and take part in a variety of legal and administrative tasks. An agent designated by the state government to witness and authenticate signatures on various documents is known as a notary public. This manual will take you step-by-step through the procedures necessary to become a notary public in California, including the necessary qualifications, the application procedure, the necessary training, and more.
Understanding a Notary Public's Role
Understanding this position’s duties and duty is crucial before beginning the application process to become a notary public. The role of notaries public in thwarting fraud and guaranteeing the validity of papers is vital. The following are only a few of the major duties of a notary public:
Verifying Signatures: Notaries are responsible for verifying the identities of individuals signing documents and ensuring that the signatures are genuine.
Administering Oaths and Affirmations: Notaries can administer oaths and affirmations for various purposes, such as affidavits or depositions.
Certifying Copies: Notaries can certify copies of certain documents as true and accurate copies of the original.
Taking Acknowledgments: Notaries witness and notarize acknowledgments, which are statements confirming that the signers of documents acted willingly and under their own free will.
Completing Jurats: A jurat is a notarial act where the notary certifies that the contents of a document are true and accurate, and the signer made an oath or affirmation to that effect.
California's Notary Public Eligibility Requirements
To become a notary public in California, you need to meet certain eligibility criteria. These criteria are set by the California Secretary of State and include the following:
- Age: You must be at least 18 years old.
- Residency: You must be a legal resident of California.
- Legal Status: You must be a legal citizen or permanent legal resident of the United States.
- Criminal History: You should not have been convicted of a felony or a disqualifying misdemeanor. Some misdemeanor convictions can still lead to disqualification, so it’s essential to review the specific disqualifications listed by the California Secretary of State.
Step-by-Step Guide to Becoming a Notary Public in California
Step 1: Complete the Required Education
California law mandates that all new notary public applicants must complete a state-approved six-hour education course before applying. This course covers the duties and responsibilities of a notary public, as well as the laws governing notarial acts. You can find approved education providers online or in-person. Once you complete the course, you will receive a certificate of completion.
Step 2: Register and Take the Exam
Soon you completed your education and received your completion certificate you are ready to register for exam. You can register for a California Notary Public examination online! To found more information or register online: Click here.
Exam results will be available 15 business days after the examination. CPS HR Consulting will mail the exam results to applicants. A score of at least 70 is required to pass the exam. Click button bellow and check your knowledge with California Notary Practice test.
Step 3: Submit Fingerprints via Live Scan
Congratulation you pass the exam and ready for next step.Now you need to submitting fingerprints via Live Scan. Keep in mind you have one year to submit your fingerprints. Fill out the form and you are ready to stop at a local fingerprints location. Be sure to request a copy of your Request For Live Scan Service form and keep your copy until you receive your notary public commission. For more information click here.
The notary public commission packet will be mailed once the application has been approved and after the applicant has passed the background check.
Step 4: Obtain a $15,000 Notary Bond
A notary bond serves as a form of insurance that protects the public from any errors or misconduct you might commit as a notary. The bond is not for your protection but for the protection of the individuals for whom you provide notarial services. You can obtain a notary bond from various insurance providers. The cost of the 15,000$ notary bond in California 38$ for four years.
Step 5: Take the Oath of Office
Attention!!! Before you can begin performing notarial acts, you must take the Oath of Office within 30 calendar days of receiving your commission packet. This 30 day period cannot be extended. A notary public must file an oath of office and bond with the county clerk’s office in the county where their principal place of business is located.Your business usually located in the area you live.
Step 6: Obtain Notary Supplies
To perform your duties effectively, you’ll need to obtain necessary notary supplies, including a notary seal and a journal. The notary seal contains essential information, such as your name, commission number, and expiration date. The journal is used to record all the notarial acts you perform, providing a record of your actions as a notary public. The minimum supply to start your notary business is: your seal, journal, thumbprint pad, acknowledgement and jurist form (you can print at home), printer.
Maintaining Your Notary Public Commission
Becoming a notary public in California is not a one-time process; it requires ongoing maintenance to ensure you remain qualified and compliant. Here are some key points to keep in mind:
Renewal: Notary commissions in California are valid for four years. To continue operating as a notary, you must renew your commission before it expires. The renewal process involves completing another approved three-hour education course, submitting a new application, and paying the required fees.
Continuing Education: Even after you become a notary, staying informed about changes in notary laws and practices is crucial. Consider participating in additional training to enhance your skills and knowledge.
Record Keeping: Maintain a detailed and accurate journal of all the notarial acts you perform. This journal serves as a record of your actions and can be crucial in case of disputes or legal issues.
Compliance: Always adhere to the laws and regulations governing notarial acts in California. Stay updated on any changes in these laws to avoid unintentional violations.
Becoming a notary public in California is a multi-step process that involves education, application, bonding, and taking an oath. Once you obtain your commission, you’ll play a vital role in ensuring the authenticity of documents and preventing fraudulent activities. The responsibilities of a notary public are significant, and your role will require attention to detail, integrity, and a commitment to upholding the law. By following the steps outlined in this guide and staying informed about your responsibilities, you can embark on a fulfilling journey as a notary public in the state of California.
