Can I make a good living as a notary in California?
Asked by: Mr. Damion Hoppe | Last update: December 16, 2025Score: 4.4/5 (5 votes)
This is actually a living wage career, but doesn't require a degree or extensive training. Around two hundred thousand people are making a good living as a notary public in California. You could be one of them if you wanted to be, and we can help you!
Is it worth being a notary in California?
Becoming a notary public in California offers numerous advantages. Firstly, it expands career opportunities as many industries require notarized documents. It boosts professional profiles and employability. Secondly, it provides an opportunity for additional income through charging fees for services.
Is there a demand for notaries in California?
Demand: The need for notaries is on the rise due to economic growth and increased legal services. This trend creates ample job opportunities. Earning Potential: With California being the highest-paying state for notaries, the average salary stands at $59,055 per year.
Can you make good money as a notary in California?
As of Jan 20, 2025, the average annual pay for a Notary in California is $63,928 a year. Just in case you need a simple salary calculator, that works out to be approximately $30.73 an hour. This is the equivalent of $1,229/week or $5,327/month.
Is it profitable to be a notary?
Opportunity to make extra money
While it's difficult to build a six-figure income by doing simple notarizations like jurats and acknowledgments, some states have higher maximum rates than others. In California, notaries can charge $15 per notarial act. In Florida, Arizona, Michigan, and others, notaries can charge $10.
MAKE AT LEAST $5k A MONTH AS A NOTARY PUBLIC
Is it hard to be a notary in California?
Requirements to Become a Notary Public
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. clear a background check.
What type of notary makes the most money?
#1: Loan Signing Agent
One of the most lucrative ways to make money as a notary public is by becoming a loan signing agent. Signing agents are responsible for guiding borrowers through the process of closing a mortgage loan, ensuring that all paperwork is properly signed and notarized.
What are the pros and cons of becoming a notary?
With the growing demand for legal documentation services, the profession offers a chance to enhance skills and increase earning potential. While there are challenges, such as licensing requirements and initial costs, these can be outweighed by the flexibility and independence that come with the role.
What is the maximum notary fee in California?
Public notaries, often found at government offices, banks, and courthouses, usually offer services at state-regulated prices. They adhere to California state laws, ensuring a maximum charge of $15 per signature.
Can Notaries work remotely in California?
Does California allow remote online notaries? Yes. Starting January 1, 2024, Californians will have the option to get their documents notarized online, based on California Senate Bill 696.
What is the hardest state to become a notary?
New York. New York has one of the toughest tests to become a Notary. The Empire State requires Notary applicants to take and pass an exam in order to receive a commission.
How many people pass the CA notary exam?
On average 97% of our students pass the California Notary Exam the first time. The state does charge you $20.00 for retaking the test and you can only take the exam once per calendar month. What happens if I fail the test? If you should fail the test, you are welcome to take advantage of our "class guarantee".
What are the risks of being a notary?
Notaries may also have to deal with different forms of documentation and people, which may cause confusion and increase the chances of making a mistake that could result in a lawsuit.
Is the notary exam hard in California?
The California notary exam is not too difficult, if you are willing to study and memorize all the required skills and rules to be a Notary Public. The notary exam will have 45 multiple-choice questions, and you must answer at least 70% correctly to pass.
Is notary a stressful job?
Working as a Notary is flexible, rewarding and provides a valuable service to the public — but no one ever said it's a cakewalk. Notaries face many sources of stress on the job, including angry customers, illegal requests, irregular work hours and more.
Can being a notary be a side hustle?
Why becoming a Notary is the ultimate side gig. Whether you're looking for a way to work from home or a part-time job to get you out of the house, you should consider becoming a Notary first. A Notary commission can open the door to more than a dozen additional money-making opportunities.
What is the most common mistake made by a notary?
One of the most common mistakes that notaries make is not printing or signing their name exactly as it appears on their notary commission.
How much do part-time notaries make in California?
As of Jan 14, 2025, the average annual pay for a Part Time Notary in California is $63,928 a year. Just in case you need a simple salary calculator, that works out to be approximately $30.73 an hour. This is the equivalent of $1,229/week or $5,327/month.
How long does it take to become a notary in CA?
Here's the process for becoming a first time California notary. You'll need to complete an approved, 6 hour, notary class, in person or on line, complete the application with passport photos, pay for and pass the notary test after you give the test givers the certificate of completion of the course.
Are notaries respected?
As representatives of the state, Notaries must perform their official duties with respect and seriousness for the public service role they play as a trusted, impartial witness.
How to market yourself as a notary?
- Create profiles on as many Notary listing websites as possible.
- Create a social media presence.
- Create a Google ad for your business.
- Form a Notary network.
- Reach out directly to potential clients.
What disqualifies you from being a notary in California?
Failure to disclose any arrest or conviction. Conviction of a felony where not more than 10 years have passed since the completion of probation. Conviction of a disqualifying misdemeanor where not more than 5 years have passed since the completion of probation.
How much do notaries charge in California?
Notarization fees are regulated by California state law and are generally low-cost. So how much does a notary charge? In most cases, a California notary public may charge a maximum notary fee of $15 for each signature. This includes writing the certificate, affixing the notary stamp, and acknowledging the signature.
Can you make money as a notary in California?
Become a loan signing agentA great way to secure paid contracts as a notary is by choosing to also become a loan signing agent. Notaries public often perform as loan signing agents in California, since they are certified to witness and confirm a loan document that is being signed.