If you're considering becoming a California Notary Public, one of your first questions is probably:
How much does it actually cost to become a notary in California?
The good news is that becoming a notary is relatively affordable compared with many other professional opportunities. However, the cost isn't just one fee. California applicants need to complete required education, take the state exam, complete a background check, purchase a bond and supplies, and file their oath and bond.
For most new applicants, it's reasonable to budget approximately $200–$350 to complete the process and purchase the basic supplies needed to get started. Your actual total can vary depending on your training provider, Live Scan location, county filing fees, bond provider, and the supplies you purchase.
Let's break down the costs.
1. California-Approved Notary Education — $49 With Harrison Academy
California requires new notary applicants to complete a six-hour course of study approved by the California Secretary of State.
Training prices vary depending on the education provider.
At Harrison Academy, our California Notary Public 6-Hour Training Course is $49.
Your training isn't simply another expense—it's an investment in understanding the laws, responsibilities, procedures, and professional standards you'll need to know as a California notary.
You'll also need your Proof of Completion certificate when applying.
Harrison Academy Course Cost: $49
2. State Exam and Application — $40
After completing your approved education, you'll need to take the California Notary Public examination.
The California Secretary of State currently lists the fee for a new or reappointing commission application at $40, which covers the examination and application processing fees.
If you don't pass the examination and need to retake it, the retake examination fee is currently $20.
Initial Exam/Application Cost: $40
3. Passport-Style Photo — Approximately $10–$20
You'll need to bring a 2" x 2" color passport-style photograph with your application when taking the examination.
The price will depend on where you have your photograph taken or printed.
Estimated Cost: $10–$20
4. Live Scan Fingerprinting — Cost Varies
After passing the examination, California notary applicants must submit fingerprints through Live Scan so the required background check can be completed.
Live Scan pricing can vary by location and provider, so it's a good idea to contact a Live Scan provider in your area for the current total before going.
Cost: Varies by provider
5. $15,000 Surety Bond — Price Varies
California notaries are required to obtain a $15,000 surety bond.
Don't let that number scare you—you do not pay $15,000 for the bond.
The $15,000 represents the bond amount. Your actual premium is typically only a fraction of that amount and varies depending on the company you purchase it from.
It's also important to understand that a surety bond is designed to protect the public, not the notary. Some notaries choose to purchase separate Errors & Omissions (E&O) insurance for additional personal protection.
Bond Cost: Varies by provider
6. Filing Your Oath and Bond — Cost Varies by County
Once you receive your commission, you'll need to file your oath of office and $15,000 surety bond with the county clerk in the county where your principal place of business is located.
County filing and recording fees vary.
One deadline you absolutely don't want to miss is the 30-calendar-day filing requirement. Your oath and bond must be filed within 30 calendar days from the commencement date of your commission. This deadline cannot be extended.
Missing it can mean having to start the application process again.
Cost: Varies by county
7. California Notary Seal — Approximately $20–$40+
Every California notary needs an official notary seal.
After receiving your commission packet, you'll receive information regarding manufacturers authorized to produce California notary seals.
Prices vary depending on the manufacturer and the type of stamp you choose.
Estimated Cost: $20–$40+
8. Notary Journal — Approximately $15–$30+
California notaries are required to keep and maintain an active sequential journal of their notarial acts.
Journal prices vary based on the design, size, quality, and manufacturer.
Estimated Cost: $15–$30+
So, What's the Total Cost to Become a California Notary?
Here is a simple example of what a new applicant might budget:
| Expense | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Harrison Academy 6-Hour Training | $49 |
| State Exam/Application | $40 |
| Passport Photo | $10–$20 |
| Live Scan/Background Check | Varies |
| $15,000 Surety Bond | Varies |
| County Oath & Bond Filing | Varies |
| Notary Seal | $20–$40+ |
| Notary Journal | $15–$30+ |
| Estimated Overall Budget | Approximately $200–$350 |
Keep in mind that this is an estimate rather than a fixed statewide price. Several of the expenses are charged by private providers or individual counties, so your actual cost may be higher or lower.
Are There Any Optional Costs?
Yes.
Once you've completed the basic requirements, you may decide to invest in additional tools to help build your notary business.
Optional expenses can include:
- Errors & Omissions insurance
- Business cards
- A professional website
- Marketing and advertising
- A notary bag or briefcase
- Additional stamps or journals
- Printer and scanner
- Mobile notary supplies
- Loan Signing Agent training
You don't necessarily need all of these things to receive your commission. You can start with the essentials and add additional business tools as you grow.
Is Becoming a California Notary Worth the Cost?
For many people, the relatively low startup cost is one of the appealing things about becoming a notary.
California notaries may charge up to $15 per signature notarized for certain common notarial acts, such as acknowledgments, and up to $15 for administering an oath or affirmation and completing a jurat.
Notaries who offer mobile services may also build businesses serving individuals and organizations that regularly need documents notarized.
Becoming a notary can also complement careers in industries such as real estate, law, finance, healthcare, automotive services, and other document-heavy professions.
Ready to Become a California Notary?
Your first major step is completing your state-required education.
Harrison Academy offers California Secretary of State-approved Notary Public education for just $49.
Our goal isn't simply to help you complete the education requirement. We want you to understand your responsibilities, prepare for the state examination, and feel confident stepping into your new professional role.
Start your California Notary Public training with Harrison Academy today.
