Qualifications and Requirements

Be 18 years of age or older (there is no maximum age set by statute);
Be a legal California resident;
Complete a course of study approved by the Secretary of State;
Satisfactorily complete and pass a written examination prescribed by the Secretary of State;
Successfully clear a background check.

Applicants found to be non-compliant with child or family support orders will be issued temporary term notary public commissions.
Notaries public found to be non-compliant after the notary public commission is issued may be subject to commission suspension or revocation. (Family Code section 17520.)

State law requires all applicants be fingerprinted as part of a background check prior to being granted an appointment as a notary public.
Information concerning the fingerprinting requirement will be mailed to applicants who pass the examination.

All applicants are required to disclose on their application any arrests for which trial is pending and all convictions.
Convictions dismissed under Penal Code section 1203.4 or 1203.4a must be disclosed.
If you have any questions concerning the disclosure of convictions or arrests, contact the Secretary of State prior to signing the application.
- For specifics about your arrest(s) and or conviction(s), please contact the California Department of Justice at (916) 227-3849.

"Hello, I just found out I passed the notary exam! I took your course and the exam. I appreciated the professionalism and convenience of the class and will certainly let others know about the program. Best, D. M."