Essential Information Before Enrolling in a California Notary Course

Before you sign up for a California notary course, here are the basics you need to know about the two types of courses, what they cover, and how to choose the right one.

Two Types of Courses

6-hour course (new notaries)

If you have never held a California notary commission, or if your commission has expired, you must take the 6-hour course. It covers everything tested on the state exam:

• Notary law and regulations
• Identity verification procedures
• Acknowledgments, jurats, oaths, and copy certifications
• Journal and record-keeping requirements
• Fees, misconduct, and penalties
• Fraud prevention

3-hour course (renewing notaries)

If your current commission has not yet expired, you can take the 3-hour refresher. It covers legal updates and core responsibilities. If your commission expires before you reapply, even by one day, you must take the full 6-hour course instead.

What to Look for in a Course Provider

• State approval: The provider must be approved by the California Secretary of State. You can verify this on the SOS website.
• Practice exams: Not every course includes practice tests. Many students do not realize this until after they have already paid. Practice exams are the single best way to prepare for the state exam, and courses that skip them leave students underprepared.
• Online vs. in-person: Online courses let you study on your own schedule. In-person courses are limited to specific dates and locations.
• Course completion certificate: You need this to submit with your application to the Secretary of State. It is valid for two years from the date of completion.

CalNotaryClass is a state-approved provider that includes practice exams with both the 3-hour and 6-hour courses.

What a Notary Course Covers

Both courses are based on the California Notary Public Handbook published by the Secretary of State. Topics include:

• Appointment qualifications and requirements
• The $15,000 notary bond
• Notary seal requirements
• Acceptable forms of identification
• Journal entries and record keeping
• Conflicts of interest
• Acknowledgments and jurats (when to use each)
• Proof of execution by subscribing witness
• Copy certifications (limited to powers of attorney and journal entries only)
• Fees and fee limits
• Grounds for denial, revocation, or suspension

The state exam draws from all of these topics. See our practice test guide for exam format and scoring details.

After the Course: Next Steps

Completing the course is one step in a multi-step process. Here is what comes next:

1. Pass the state notary exam (45 questions, you need 30 correct to pass).
2. Submit your application and proof of completion at the exam site.
3. Complete Live Scan fingerprinting for the background check.
4. Wait for your commission packet from the Secretary of State (typically 6 to 12 weeks).
5. File your oath of office and $15,000 bond at your county clerk within 30 days.
6. Purchase your notary seal and journal.

From course to active commission, expect the process to take 3 to 5 months. See the full renewal timeline if you are a renewing notary.

Total Cost to Get Commissioned

Course tuition is the biggest variable, but here is what the full process costs:

• 6-hour course: $50 to $150 depending on the provider
• State exam fee: $40 for new notaries ($20 for renewals)
• Live Scan background check: $15 to $35 plus $32 DOJ/FBI fees
• $15,000 surety bond: $30 to $60
• Notary seal: $15 to $30
• Journal: $10 to $20
• County filing fee: $10 to $20

Total to become a notary in California: roughly $200 to $400. Renewing notaries pay less because the course and exam fees are lower. See our full cost breakdown for details.

Common Mistakes When Choosing a Course

• Letting your commission lapse before taking the refresher. If your commission expires, even by one day, you lose the option to take the 3-hour course and must complete the full 6-hour course again. Take the refresher early.
• Choosing the cheapest option without checking what is included. Some budget courses do not include practice exams, completion certificate fees, or exam prep materials. The savings on tuition can cost you if you fail the exam and have to retake it ($40 each attempt).
• Not verifying state approval. Only courses listed on the Secretary of State website count toward your requirement. If the provider is not on that list, your certificate will not be accepted.
• Waiting too long to take the exam after the course. The material fades fast. Schedule your exam within a week or two of finishing the course while the information is still fresh.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to take a course to become a notary?

Yes. California requires new notaries to complete a 6-hour state-approved course before taking the exam. Renewing notaries need a 3-hour refresher.

Can I take the notary course online?

Yes. Online courses are available from state-approved providers like CalNotaryClass. You complete the material at your own pace and receive a completion certificate.

What is the difference between the 3-hour and 6-hour course?

The 6-hour course is for new notaries and covers all exam topics in depth. The 3-hour course is a refresher for renewing notaries whose commission has not expired.

Does the course include a practice exam?

Not all courses do. Check before you enroll. CalNotaryClass includes practice exams with both courses, which helps with exam preparation.

How long is the course completion certificate valid?

Two years from the date of completion. You must submit it with your application within that timeframe.

How long does it take to get commissioned after the course?

Plan on 3 to 5 months from completing the course to receiving your active commission. The background check and Secretary of State processing are the longest waits.