California Notary Exam Day: Your Complete Preparation Guide
The California Notary Public Exam has strict admission rules.
If you are missing even one required item, there are no exceptions—you will be turned away.
Use this checklist to pack everything the night before your exam.
Do not wait until the morning—missing items means missing your exam date.
The "Big 5" Required Items
You must bring physical copies of all five items below.
Digital copies on your phone are not accepted.
Current Photo Identification
You must present one acceptable form of ID. It must be current or issued within the last 5 years.
Acceptable Forms of ID:
- State Driver's License or State ID (DMV)
- Canadian or Mexican Driver's License
- U.S. Passport or Passport Card
- Foreign Passport (issued by a foreign government)
- U.S. Military ID Card
The name on your ID must exactly match the name on your application.
"Robert" on your ID and "Bob" on your application can result in denial.
What NOT to Bring (Prohibited Items)
The exam environment is secure. These items are not allowed in the testing area.
Prohibited Items Checklist
If your phone rings during the exam, you may be dismissed immediately.
Turn it off completely or leave it in your car.
Essential Supplies & Comfort Items
These are not required for admission, but highly recommended for a smooth exam experience:
Recommended Items
Arrival Strategy: The "45-Minute Rule"
CPS HR Consulting recommends arriving 45 minutes early.
Why arriving early matters:
- Long check-in lines are common
- Walk-ins are admitted only after registered candidates
- Late arrivals may be denied entry
- Time to review your documents one last time
If you did not register online, arriving early is your only chance to secure a seat.
Common Mistakes That Get Candidates Turned Away
Based on CPS HR Consulting data, these are the top reasons candidates are denied entry:
Payment-Related Mistakes
- ❌ Bringing cash instead of check/money order
- ❌ Bringing credit card
- ❌ Wrong payment amount
- ❌ Check not made payable to "Secretary of State"
The most common mistake is bringing cash instead of a check or money order.
There are no exceptions—cash is not accepted.
Key Terms Defined
CPS HR Consulting
The organization that administers the California Notary Public Exam at physical test locations.
Walk-in Candidate
A candidate who did not register online and is admitted on a first-come, first-served basis if seats remain.
Proof of Completion
Your official education certificate from a 6-hour (new) or 3-hour (renewing) notary course.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I pay with cash if I have exact change?
No. Cash is strictly prohibited. Only checks or money orders are accepted.
Can I use a credit card?
No. Credit cards are not accepted. Only checks or money orders payable to "Secretary of State."
What if my check bounces?
Your exam will be invalidated. Ensure you have sufficient funds in your account.
Your Exam Day Checklist
Use this checklist to pack the night before your exam:
Complete Exam Day Checklist
Next Steps: Prepare for Success
- Pack your bag the night before — Don't wait until morning
- Double-check payment method — Check or money order only
- Verify name match — ID and application must match exactly
- Arrive 45 minutes early — Give yourself time
- Practice exam-style questions — Build confidence with PrepDrill
The night before your exam, lay out all required items on a table.
Take a photo with your phone as a backup reference.
Then pack everything in a clear folder or envelope.
Last updated: January 2025.
Based on CPS HR Consulting requirements and the Official 2025 California Notary Public Handbook.