Becoming a California notary takes a class, a state exam, a background check, and a required $15,000 notary bond. Here is every step, and Junno Surety can handle the bond part the same day.
- Who this is for
- Anyone who wants to be a notary in California
- Required bond
- $15,000 California notary bond
- Bond cost
- A low one-time fee, often under $50 for the term
- Commission term
- 4 years
- Bond deadline
- File within 30 days of your commission start
The steps to become a California notary
California has a clear process. Here is the order:
- Make sure you qualify. You must be 18 or older and a legal California resident.
- Take a state-approved notary education course. It is 6 hours for new notaries.
- Pass the California notary exam and get your photo and fingerprints taken (Live Scan background check).
- Wait for the Secretary of State to approve your commission.
- Buy your $15,000 notary bond, then file the bond and your oath of office with your county clerk within 30 days.
- Get your notary stamp and journal, and you are ready to work.
The $15,000 notary bond, explained
California is one of the states that requires a notary bond. The amount is $15,000. The bond protects the public, not you. If you make a notary mistake that costs someone money, the bond pays them, up to $15,000, and then you repay the bond company.
It is not the same as E&O (errors and omissions) insurance, which protects you. The bond is required. E&O is optional but smart.
How much does the bond cost?
The $15,000 bond is cheap. It usually costs a low one-time fee for the full four-year term, often under $50. There is no credit check. Junno can issue it the same day and email it to you so you can file on time.
Get your California notary bond from Junno
Junno Surety is licensed in California and issues the $15,000 notary bond fast. Tell us your name and commission details, and we will email your bond so you can file with your county clerk and start notarizing.
Junno Surety is a licensed agency and can often issue your bond the same day. Get your free quote → or call (762) 499-0237.
Frequently asked questions
Does California require a notary bond?
Yes. California requires a $15,000 notary bond, filed with your county clerk within 30 days of your commission start date.
How much is the California notary bond?
It is cheap, usually a low one-time fee for the full 4-year term, often under $50. There is no credit check.
Is the bond the same as insurance?
No. The bond protects the public if you make a mistake. E&O insurance protects you. The bond is required; E&O is optional.
How fast can I get the bond?
Same day. Junno emails your $15,000 notary bond so you can file on time.