Quick Reference: California Notary Exam 2025
Quick Facts:
- Exam Format: 45 questions (40 scored + 5 trial), 60 minutes, closed-book, 70% passing score
- Eligibility: 18+ years old, California resident, 6-hour education course, background check
- Total Cost: $200-$350 (education, exam fee $20, LiveScan $70-$90, bond $38-$50, seal, journal)
- Timeline: 4-8 weeks from exam to commission, then 30 days to file oath & bond
- Critical Deadline: 30-day filing window after receiving commission (NO exceptions)
- 2025 Updates: Tangible copy certification allowed; RON prohibited until 2030
Key Terms Defined:
- Acknowledgment: A notarial act where the signer confirms they signed the document voluntarily
- Jurat: A notarial act where the signer swears or affirms the truthfulness of the document contents
- Credible Witness: A person who can identify a signer when the signer lacks proper ID
- Subscribing Witness: A person who watches someone sign a document when the signer cannot appear before the notary
- Seal vs Stamp: California requires an embossing seal (raised impression) or inking stamp; both are legally acceptable
To become a California Notary Public in 2025, you must be at least 18 years old, a legal resident of California, complete a Secretary of State-approved 6-hour education course, pass a 45-question proctored exam, and clear a background check (LiveScan). The entire process involves strict timelines, specifically the 30-day deadline to file your oath and bond after receiving your commission.
This guide breaks down every step, cost, and rule you need to know to pass on your first try. California Notary Exam 2025 explained simply - this is your complete quick guide to success.
1. California Notary Exam Requirements 2025: Do You Qualify?
Who can become a notary in California? Before you spend a dime on courses, ensure you meet the statutory requirements found in Government Code § 8201. If you miss one of these, your application will be denied.
Eligibility Checklist
- Age: You must be at least 18 years old.
- Residency: You must be a legal resident of California. (You do not need to be a U.S. citizen).
- Education: You must satisfy the education requirement (detailed below).
- Integrity: You must pass a background check. All arrests pending trial and convictions must be disclosed.
Coach's Tip: Don't hide your past. Government Code § 8214.1 allows the Secretary of State to deny your application for a "substantial and material misstatement or omission." If you have a conviction, disclose it. It looks worse if they find it themselves.
2. California Notary Exam 2025 Format: What to Expect on Test Day
How to pass the California notary exam starts with understanding the format. Many candidates fail because they don't know what to expect. The California exam is administered by CPS HR Consulting. It is closed-book and proctored.
California Notary Exam Format Comparison
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Total Questions | 45 items (40 scored + 5 non-scored trial items) |
| Time Limit | 60 minutes (1 hour) |
| Passing Score | 70% (approximately 28-30 correct answers) |
| Format | Multiple-choice, closed-book exam |
| Administrator | CPS HR Consulting |
| Retake Policy | Once per calendar month, $20 fee each time |
| Results Validity | 1 year from exam date |
The 5 Core Exam Domains Explained
Your 45 questions will come from these specific buckets. Don't waste time studying things that aren't on this list:
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Administrative Procedures (5 items) – Covers address changes, journal loss procedures, record-keeping requirements, and how to notify the Secretary of State of changes to your notary information.
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Notarial Acts/Documentation (12 items) – The largest section covering Acknowledgments, Jurats, Proofs of Execution, Oaths and Affirmations. You must know when to use each notarial act and the proper certificate wording.
- Acknowledgment: A notarial act where the signer confirms they signed the document voluntarily and for the stated purpose. Used for deeds, contracts, and most real estate documents.
- Jurat: A notarial act where the signer swears or affirms the truthfulness of the document contents under penalty of perjury. Used for affidavits, depositions, and sworn statements.
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Identification/Subscribing Witness (4 items) – Covers acceptable forms of ID, credible witness procedures, and when you can use a subscribing witness instead of direct identification.
- Credible Witness: A person who personally knows the signer and can identify them when the signer lacks proper ID. The credible witness must also have valid ID and sign your journal.
- Subscribing Witness: A person who watches someone sign a document when the signer cannot appear before the notary (e.g., physically unable to sign). The subscribing witness then appears before the notary to confirm they witnessed the signing.
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Immigration/Foreign Language (4 items) – Includes advertising restrictions (you cannot advertise as an immigration consultant), fee caps for immigration-related notarizations, and language requirements.
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Misconduct/Fees (15 items) – The second-largest section covering fines ($750–$10,000) for various violations, penalties for misconduct, and proper fee structures. Memorize the fine amounts - they appear frequently on the exam.
Is the California Notary Exam Hard?
California notary exam pass rate data isn't publicly published, but the exam is challenging because:
- It's closed-book (you must memorize fines, timelines, and procedures)
- Questions test nuanced understanding of notarial acts
- Time pressure (1.3 minutes per question)
- Many candidates fail due to lack of preparation, not difficulty
California notary exam tips: Focus on memorizing fine amounts, understanding when to use each notarial act, and practicing with official handbook-based questions.
3. How to Pass the California Notary Exam: The 5-Step Process
How to study for the California notary exam requires following a strict sequence. The journey follows a strict sequence. Do not skip steps.
Timeline: From Education to Commissioned Notary
- Week 1-2: Complete 6-hour education course
- Week 2-3: Register and take exam ($20 fee)
- Week 3-4: Submit LiveScan fingerprints ($70-$90)
- Week 4-8: Wait for background check and commission packet
- Day 1 of Commission: 30-day countdown begins
- Day 30: Deadline to file oath & bond (NO exceptions)
Complete Required Education
- New Applicants: Must complete a 6-hour approved course of study.
- Renewing Notaries: May take a 3-hour refresher course only if their commission has not yet expired.
The Trap: If your commission expires before you take the exam and file your paperwork, the 3-hour course is invalid. You must retake the 6-hour course regardless of your experience level.
Register for the Exam
You cannot take the exam online at home; you must go to a physical site.
- Exam Fee: $20.00 (payable by check or money order).
- Registration: You can register online at the CPS HR Consulting website. Walk-ins are allowed but not guaranteed.
Pass the Background Check (LiveScan)
After the exam, you must submit fingerprints via LiveScan. The Department of Justice (DOJ) and FBI will check your record.
- Note: You must submit fingerprints each time you apply, even for renewals.
Receive Your Commission Packet
If you pass the exam and background check, the Secretary of State will mail your commission packet.
Do not open the champagne yet. The clock starts ticking the moment the term on that commission paper begins.
File Your Oath & Bond (The 30-Day Rule)
This is where most candidates fail.
- The Deadline: You have exactly 30 calendar days from the commencement date on your commission to file your oath and bond.
- The Bond: You must purchase a $15,000 surety bond.
- Where to File: The County Clerk's office in the county where your principal place of business is located.
Common Trap: There are NO exceptions to the 30-day filing rule. Not for mail delays, not for illness, not for county clerk errors. If you miss day 30, your commission is void, and you must start over (new application, new fees, new fingerprints).
Common Mistakes on the California Notary Exam
- Not memorizing fine amounts - Fines ($750-$10,000) are heavily tested
- Confusing Acknowledgments and Jurats - Know when to use each notarial act
- Missing the 30-day filing deadline - Most common reason for commission void
- Not understanding credible vs subscribing witness - These are different procedures
- Using outdated study materials - The exam changes yearly; use 2025 handbook only
4. Exam Day Checklist: What to Bring
You will be turned away if you are missing any of these items. This exam day checklist ensures you're fully prepared.
Required Items for Exam Day
- ✅ Current Photo ID: Driver's License, Passport, or other State/Government ID.
- ✅ Proof of Completion: Your 6-hour or 3-hour course certificate.
- ✅ Completed Application: The official Notary Public Application form (printed).
- ✅ 2" x 2" Color Passport Photo: Stapled to your application.
- ✅ Payment: A check or money order for $20.00 made payable to "Secretary of State". (Cash and credit cards are NOT accepted at the test site).
- ✅ Supplies: Two #2 pencils.
California Notary Exam Tips for Success
- Arrive Early: Give yourself at least 30 minutes before your scheduled time to find parking and check in.
- Time Management: With 60 minutes for 45 questions, you have roughly 1.3 minutes per question. Don't spend too long on any single question - mark difficult ones and return if time permits.
- Read Carefully: Many questions have trick wording. Read each question twice before selecting your answer.
- Use Process of Elimination: If you're unsure, eliminate obviously wrong answers first.
- Stay Calm: If you finish early, use the remaining time to review your answers, especially for questions you marked as uncertain.
5. California Notary Costs 2025: How Much Does It Cost?
Budgeting is critical. Here is what you can expect to pay based on statutory fees and market averages.
Complete Cost Breakdown
| Item | Estimated Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Education Course | $25 - $100+ | Varies by vendor. |
| Exam Fee | $20.00 | Paid to Secretary of State. |
| Passport Photo | $15.00 | Required for application. |
| LiveScan Fingerprinting | $70 - $90 | DOJ/FBI processing fees + rolling fee. |
| Surety Bond ($15k) | $38 - $50 | Price for a 4-year term. |
| Notary Seal (Stamp) | $20 - $40 | Must be manufactured by authorized vendor. |
| Journal | $10 - $30 | Mandatory specific journal type. |
| Total Estimated | $200 - $350 |
Note: The $15,000 surety bond is not insurance for you - it protects the public. If a claim is paid, you must reimburse the bonding company. Consider purchasing Errors & Omissions (E&O) insurance separately to protect yourself.
6. Common Scenarios: What to Do If...
Scenario: What if I miss the 30-day filing deadline?
If you fail to file your oath and bond within 30 days of your commission start date, your commission is void. You must re-apply, pay new fees, get new LiveScan fingerprints, and essentially start over. You do not need to retake the 6-hour course if your proof of completion is less than 2 years old.
Scenario: What if I fail the exam?
You can retake the exam as many times as needed. However, you can only take it once per calendar month. You must pay the $20.00 exam fee each time you sit for the test. Results are valid for one year, so you have time to complete the process if you pass on a retake.
Scenario: What if my LiveScan is delayed?
Background checks can take anywhere from a few days to several months depending on your record. You can check the status of your background check on the DOJ website using the ATI number from your LiveScan form. The Secretary of State will not issue your commission until this clears.
Scenario: What if I lose my course completion certificate?
Contact your course provider immediately. Most providers keep records and can issue a replacement certificate. However, if you cannot obtain a replacement and your certificate is required for the exam, you may need to retake the course.
Scenario: What if I move counties after getting my commission?
You must notify the Secretary of State within 30 days of any address change. If you move to a different county, you may need to file a new oath and bond in your new county, depending on where your principal place of business is located.
Scenario: What if my passport photo is rejected?
The exam site may reject photos that don't meet specifications (wrong size, poor quality, not recent enough). Bring a backup photo or be prepared to have one taken at a nearby location before your exam time.
7. California Notary Law Changes 2025: What You Must Know
The exam changes every year. If you are using an old study guide, you will fail. The 2025 Handbook introduces two critical updates:
Tangible Copy Certification (New for 2025)
Under Government Code § 27201.1, notaries can now notarize a "tangible copy" (paper printout) of an electronic record.
- The Rule: A "disinterested custodian" must certify the copy is accurate. You, the notary, then perform a Jurat for that custodian.
Coach's Tip: You are notarizing the custodian's signature, not certifying the document yourself.
Remote Online Notarization (RON) Status:
- The Truth: California notaries are PROHIBITED from performing Remote Online Notarization (webcam notarization) right now.
- The Timeline: The law authorizing RON does not become operative until January 1, 2030, or until the Secretary of State completes the technology reporting system. Do not buy RON software in 2025.
Exam Impact: How 2025 Law Changes Affect the Exam
Tangible Copy Certification:
- Expect 1-2 questions about the new tangible copy procedure
- Know that a "disinterested custodian" must certify the copy first
- Understand that you perform a Jurat (not an Acknowledgment) for the custodian
- Remember: You're notarizing the custodian's signature, not the document itself
Remote Online Notarization:
- The exam will test that RON is currently prohibited in California
- Know that RON becomes operative on January 1, 2030 (or when technology system is ready)
- Do not confuse RON with the exam process itself (the exam is still in-person)
8. California Notary 2025 Handbook Explained: Key Definitions
Understanding these terms is critical for exam success:
Seal vs Stamp:
- Seal: An embossing seal creates a raised impression on paper (traditional method)
- Stamp: An inking stamp creates an ink impression (modern, more common)
- Both are legally acceptable in California, but the seal/stamp must meet specific size and content requirements
Notarial Acts:
- Acknowledgment: Signer confirms they signed voluntarily (most common for real estate)
- Jurat: Signer swears/affirms truthfulness under penalty of perjury (for affidavits)
- Proof of Execution: Used when signer cannot appear, subscribing witness confirms signing
- Oath/Affirmation: Verbal swearing or affirming truthfulness (often combined with Jurat)
Identification Methods:
- Direct Identification: Signer presents valid government-issued photo ID
- Credible Witness: Person who knows signer identifies them when signer lacks ID
- Subscribing Witness: Person watches signer sign, then appears before notary to confirm
9. Practice Quiz: Test Your Knowledge
California notary exam prep requires practice. Answer these 5 questions to gauge your readiness:
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What is the passing score for the California Notary exam?
- A) 65%
- B) 70%
- C) 75%
- D) 80%
- Answer: B) 70% - You must answer at least 28-30 of the 40 scored questions correctly.
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How long do you have to file your oath and bond after receiving your commission?
- A) 15 days
- B) 30 days
- C) 45 days
- D) 60 days
- Answer: B) 30 days - This is a strict deadline with NO exceptions.
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What is the difference between an Acknowledgment and a Jurat?
- A) An Acknowledgment is for real estate, a Jurat is for affidavits
- B) An Acknowledgment confirms voluntary signing, a Jurat requires swearing to truthfulness
- C) Both are the same
- D) An Acknowledgment requires a witness, a Jurat does not
- Answer: B) - An Acknowledgment confirms the signer signed voluntarily, while a Jurat requires the signer to swear/affirm the truthfulness of the document contents.
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Can California notaries perform Remote Online Notarization (RON) in 2025?
- A) Yes, with proper software
- B) No, it's prohibited until 2030
- C) Yes, but only for certain documents
- D) Yes, with special training
- Answer: B) - RON is prohibited in California until January 1, 2030, or until the Secretary of State completes the technology reporting system.
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What is the maximum fine for notary misconduct in California?
- A) $5,000
- B) $7,500
- C) $10,000
- D) $15,000
- Answer: C) $10,000 - Fines range from $750 to $10,000 depending on the violation.
Need more practice? Start drilling 164 practice questions now
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I take the California Notary exam online?
No. The exam is administered in person at proctored testing sites. While "Remote Online Notarization" is a topic of discussion, the exam process itself remains physical to ensure security.
How many questions are on the California Notary exam?
The exam contains 45 items total: 40 scored questions and 5 non-scored trial questions. You have 60 minutes to complete all 45 items.
What score do I need to pass the California Notary exam?
You need a 70% passing score, which typically means answering at least 28-30 of the 40 scored questions correctly (depending on the scaled scoring system).
Is the California Notary exam open book?
No. The California Notary exam is closed book. You cannot use notes, the handbook, or your phone during the test. You must memorize the fines and timelines.
How long is the California Notary exam?
The exam has a 60-minute time limit. With 45 questions, you have approximately 1.3 minutes per question.
What happens if I fail the notary exam?
You can retake the exam as many times as needed, but you must pay the $20.00 exam fee each time. You can only take the exam once per calendar month. Exam results are valid for one year.
How long does my commission last?
A California notary commission is valid for four years. You must start the renewal process at least 6 months before expiration to avoid a lapse in your authority.
Is the notary bond insurance for me?
No. The $15,000 surety bond protects the public from your mistakes. If the bonding company pays out a claim, you must pay them back. To protect yourself, you need separate Errors & Omissions (E&O) insurance.
How long does it take to become a notary in California?
The entire process typically takes 4-8 weeks from exam date to receiving your commission, depending on background check processing times. After receiving your commission, you have 30 days to file your oath and bond.
Next Steps: Start Practicing
Now that you understand the process, it's time to prepare. PrepDrill offers 164 practice questions based on the Official 2025 California Notary Public Handbook, covering all 5 exam domains.
Start practicing now to ensure you pass on your first attempt.
Last updated: January 2025. This guide is based on the Official 2025 California Notary Public Handbook and current state regulations.