How much does it cost to become a notary in California?
Asked by: Cheyanne DuBuque | Last update: April 26, 2025Score: 4.8/5 (45 votes)
The cost to become a Notary in California ranges between $313 to $595, depending on the company you choose for your Notary training and supplies and the county in which you file your bond and oath of office.
How long does it take to become a California notary?
To become a Notary Public in California for the first time. You must take a 6-hour notary class. Once you have taken a 6-hour class, you will only be required to take a 3-hour Renewing class every four years; this is as long as you have not allowed your notary license/commission to expire.
Is it worth being a notary in California?
California is the highest paying state in the U.S. when it comes to being a notary public. The average salary of a notary public in California is $59,055. Considering the average of the country is roughly $45,000, this is another great reason to become a notary in California.
How much do notaries make in California per signature?
In California, notaries can charge $15 per notarial act. In Florida, Arizona, Michigan, and others, notaries can charge $10.
Is the California notary exam hard?
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.
California Notary Test: What You Need To Know Before You Go
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 the California notary exam open book?
The California Notary Exam 2023 is a closed-book exam that consists of 45 multiple-choice questions. (The examination time, format, and requirements can be different in other states.) It has a time limit of 60 minutes, and a passing score is 70% or higher .
Is notary a good side hustle?
A Notary commission can open the door to more than a dozen additional money-making opportunities. Being a Notary shows that you have integrity and it establishes a level of trust that gives you a leg up on your competition — even if you're not directly using your commission for every freelance job that comes your way.
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.
How much can I charge as a notary in California?
California permits notaries to charge up to $15 for each notarized signature. This cap applies to standard acts, such as acknowledging signatures on documents like affidavits and deeds. Certifying copies costs around $15 per copy, ensuring price transparency.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Is it hard to get business as a notary?
It's not instant and it's not easy. Few Notaries find high-paying and rewarding work when first starting out. A crucial part of getting business is finding and introducing yourself to potential customers. While every Notary's community is different, here are some good places to get started.
How many questions are on the California notary exam?
The exam consists of 45 multiple-choice questions. The exam time allowed is 60 minutes.
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 day in the life of a notary?
Notaries frequently meet clients at various locations, including offices, homes, and even public places like coffee shops. Each meeting typically involves verifying the identity of the signer, ensuring that all documents are complete and accurate, and witnessing the signing process.
What are the downsides of being a notary?
Time Commitment and Costs
Initial training courses may take several hours to days to complete, depending on the program's complexity. Ongoing education is necessary to stay current with changes in notarial laws and procedures. Costs can include training fees, application fees, bond expenses, and insurance premiums.
Can you work from home as a notary?
States that allow RON in the future: California, District of Columbia, Massachusetts, North Carolina and Vermont. States that don't allow RON: Alabama, Connecticut, Georgia, Mississippi and South Carolina.
What is the best side hustle from home?
- Starting a dropshipping business.
- Selling your own handcrafted products.
- Creating and selling your own designs.
- Selling digital marketing services through freelance work.
- Teaching an online course.
- Starting an affiliate marketing business.
Is the CA notary exam difficult?
California. California has some of the most stringent application requirements for Notaries in the U.S. — including a required education course and background check — and the mandatory exam is among the most challenging in any state.
How much is the California notary exam?
The $40.00 exam and application processing fee (or $20.00 exam fee for applicants who previously took the exam and failed). Payment must be by check or money order made payable to the Secretary of State (cash is not accepted at the exam site).
Is it hard to become a notary public 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.