Step-by-Step Guide to Becoming a Notary Public in California
Meet the Eligibility Requirements
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Age: Must be at least 18 years old.
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Residency: Must be a legal resident of California.
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Background: Must pass a background check.
Complete a Notary Education Course
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Duration: Complete a six-hour course approved by the California Secretary of State.
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Approved Providers: Find a list of approved notary education providers on the [California Secretary of State’s website](https://www.sos.ca.gov/notary/qualifications).
Pass the Notary Exam
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Exam: Register for and pass the California Notary Public Exam.
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Registration: You can register for the exam through the [California Secretary of State’s website](https://www.sos.ca.gov/notary/qualifications/exam).
Submit Fingerprints and Background Check
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Live Scan: Complete a background check via Live Scan.
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Form: Download and complete the [Request for Live Scan Service form] (https://www.sos.ca.gov/notary/checklist).
Complete the Notary Public Application
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Application Form: Complete the Notary Public Application form, which can be found [here](https://www.sos.ca.gov/notary/forms/notary-application).
Pay the Application Fee
Submit the application fee along with your application.
Submit Your Application
Submission: Mail your completed application, proof of completion of the notary education course, exam results, and Live Scan receipt to the California Secretary of State’s office.
Purchase a Notary Bond and Supplies
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Bond: Purchase a $15,000 surety bond.
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Supplie: Acquire necessary supplies, including a notary seal and journal.
Take the Oath of Office
Oath: File your oath of office and bond with the county clerk’s office in your principal place of business within 30 days of your commission start date.
Important Links
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[California Secretary of State - Notary Public Qualifications] (https://www.sos.ca.gov/notary/qualifications)
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[Approved Notary Education Providers] (https://www.sos.ca.gov/notary/qualifications)
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[Register for the Notary Public Exam] (https://www.sos.ca.gov/notary/qualifications/exam)
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[Request for Live Scan Service Form] (https://www.sos.ca.gov/notary/checklist)
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[Notary Public Application Form] (https://www.sos.ca.gov/notary/forms/notary-application)
Additional Resources
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California Secretary of State Notary Public Section: [California Secretary of State Notary Public Information](https://www.sos.ca.gov/notary)
By following these steps and using the provided links, you can successfully navigate the process of becoming a Notary Public in California.