How much is the notary exam in California?

Asked by: Caesar Larkin  |  Last update: August 20, 2025
Score: 4.2/5 (10 votes)

Application/Exam Fee - $40.00 for first time applicants and renewing notaries ($20.00 application fee and $20.00 State of California Exam fee). Notary Seal and $15,000 state required notary bond - $14.00 to $18.00 notary seal and $38.00 for the notary bond.

How much does the California notary exam cost?

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).

How hard is the California notary exam?

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.

What is the current notary fee in California?

Standard Fees

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.

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 .

CALIFORNIA NOTARY PUBLIC EXAM | WHAT'S ON THE TEST, DIFFICULTY, WHAT I WISH I KNEW, ADVICE

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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".

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 charge per mile?

Mileage Fees

Most mobile notaries charge for travel distance from their office to your location. Typical per mile rates range from $1-$3. Some set a mileage radius from their office and only charge for distances beyond that. For example, no mileage fees within a 25 mile radius of their base.

How much is a notary processing fee?

What are processing fees? Processing fees are the amount of money that banks and credit card companies charge a business every time their credit/debit account is used. Simply put, when a customer pays for goods or services the business has to pay the bank a fee in order to accept the payment.

What to wear to a notary exam?

Since it is vital to make a good first impression, you are advised to dress “business casual” so that you will never feel underdressed or make anyone feel uncomfortable. This includes dress shoes, solid colored slacks, and a collared shirt or a blouse.

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 to study to be a notary?

Live seminars are available for California Notary applicants throughout the state. Required training courses typically run from three to six hours and notary exams last roughly an hour. At the end of the exam, you may need to submit your fingerprints with your state Notary application.

Is being a 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.

How to pass the California notary exam?

One of the best ways to prepare for this test is to take a course. You can do this online and work through the material at your own pace. Courses provide a comprehensive explanation of required information. Practice tests are typically included in the coursework.

How much can a mobile notary charge in California?

The base travel fee for a Mobile Notary in Los Angeles during normal business hours is $55. In addition, each notarized signature is a fixed fee of $15 with every 6th signature free. If you require a notary during peak traffic or after hours, the travel fee is increased between $10 and $500 depending on the hour.

Where are notaries needed the most?

Banks, Mortgage Lenders, and Other Financial Institutions

As we pointed out, loan and mortgage documents require signature verification. The same goes for other financial agreements as well. That means financial institutions will need notary services on a regular basis.

How to become a mobile notary?

Steps to Become a Mobile Notary
  1. Meet the Basic Requirements. ...
  2. Complete Notary Education and Training. ...
  3. Pass the Notary Exam. ...
  4. Obtain a Notary Bond and Insurance. ...
  5. Apply for Your Notary Commission. ...
  6. Setting Up Your Business Structure. ...
  7. Marketing Your Services. ...
  8. Managing Appointments and Scheduling.

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.

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 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 remote notaries make in California?

How much does a Remote Notary make in California? As of Jan 19, 2025, the average annual pay for a Remote 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.

Can I be a notary part time?

It is simple, the start-up cost is fairly low and you can work either part-time or full-time. Mobile Notaries travel to signers' locations to notarize documents. They earn money by charging a fee for the notarization up to the limit allowed by their state's law.

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.