The total cost to become a notary in California typically ranges from $313 to $595. This range accounts for various required components, including training, supplies, and the specific county where you file your official documents.
Understanding the Investment: Factors Affecting Notary Costs
Becoming a California Notary Public involves several mandatory steps, each with associated fees. The variation in the total cost primarily stems from the choices you make regarding your training provider and the specific supplies you purchase, as well as the administrative fees charged by different counties for filing your bond and oath of office.
The overall investment covers essential requirements to ensure you are properly prepared, legally compliant, and equipped to perform your duties.
Breakdown of Potential Notary Costs
While the exact figures for each item can vary, the following table outlines the general categories of expenses that contribute to the total cost of becoming a notary in California:
| Cost Category | Description |
|---|---|
| Notary Training | A mandatory 6-hour notary public education course is required for all new applicants. Costs for this course can vary significantly depending on the provider you choose, with online and in-person options available. |
| State Exam Fee | A fee is required to sit for the California Notary Public Exam. This is a standard state-mandated fee. |
| Notary Public Bond | California law mandates that all notaries secure a $15,000 surety bond for a four-year term. The premium for this bond can vary among different bond providers. |
| Notary Supplies | Essential tools such as your official notary stamp (or seal), a notary journal to record your acts, and a thumbprint ink pad are required. The price of these items can differ based on the vendor, quality, and whether they are purchased individually or as part of a package. |
| Live Scan Fingerprinting | A background check through Live Scan fingerprinting is mandatory for all notary applicants. The fee for this service covers the fingerprinting process and the background check conducted by the Department of Justice and the FBI. |
| Application & Filing Fees | This includes the fee for submitting your Notary Public Application to the California Secretary of State, as well as any separate fees charged by your county clerk's office for filing your official bond and oath of office after you are commissioned. County filing fees can vary by jurisdiction. |
Essential Steps and Associated Expenses
To become a notary in California, you'll navigate through a series of steps where these costs are incurred:
- Complete Approved Education: Enroll in and successfully complete a state-approved 6-hour notary public education course.
- Pass the State Exam: Pay the exam fee and pass the California Notary Public Exam.
- Undergo Background Check: Complete the Live Scan fingerprinting process for your background check.
- Purchase Bond & Supplies: Once commissioned, you'll need to purchase your $15,000 surety bond and essential notary supplies.
- File Oath & Bond: File your official oath of office and notary bond with the county clerk in your principal place of business within 30 days of your commission start date.
By understanding these various components, you can better estimate your total investment to embark on your journey as a California Notary Public. Shopping around for training providers and supply vendors can help you manage these costs within the stated range.
