How much does all of this cost?

• Online Course: $49.00
• New Commission Application: $20
• Exam: $20(Note: the Application fee and the Exam Fee are paid together at the time of the state exam.)
• Supplies: Supply costs vary based on the company you purchase them from.

How long does the state exam take?
The state exam is 50 minutes with 30 multiple choice questions.

How soon will I get my exam results?
10-14 business days after taking the exam. Contact CPS (916) 263-3520 M-F 8am-5pm

What is the passing score for the state exam?
You need to score a 70% or higher.

What do I bring with me to the State Exam?
You must bring your application, certificate of 3 hour completion, 2x2 passport photo, 2-#2 pencils and a check or money order payable to the Secretary of state for $40. Do not bring cash or credit card.

I have completed my approved 3 hour course of study and received my proof of completion certificate. What do I do with it?
Once you have completed your 3 hour course of study, staple your proof of completion to the application and 2x2 passport photo and take them with you to the state exam.

How do I schedule the state exam?
You can schedule your state exam online by visiting the CPS website. The test is scheduled through Cooperative Personal Services. CPS is contracted by the State of California Notary Division to administer the Notary Public written test.

How long do I have to take the state exam after I complete the course?
The certificate of completion is valid for 2 years from the date of issuance. If a person seeking appointment does not pass the state exam before the expiration date of their Proof of Completion certificate, that person will have to satisfactorily complete another 6 hour course.

What are the requirements for applicants to be eligible to take an approved 3 hour refresher course?
Notaries who have previously completed an approved 6 hour notary public education course are eligible to take an approved 3 hour refresher course if they take the notary public exam and submitted the application at the exam site prior to the expiration date of their current commission.

I am currently a commissioned Notary Public applying for re-appointment without a break in commission. Am I still required to submit my fingerprints each time I reapply?
Yes, effective January 1, 2008, all notary public applicants, whether or not they have held a previous commission, they must now submit fingerprints to the Department of Justice (DOJ) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) for the purpose of a background check. Live Scan forwards fingerprint images to the DOJ and FBI requesting a state and federal summary of criminal information that will be provided to the Secretary of State.

How soon can I take the test for reappointment if I currently hold a notary public commission?
To avoid a break in commission terms, you should take the state exam at least 6 months prior to the expiration date of your current commission. Test results are valid for one year from the date of the exam.

I have completed an approved course of study and taken the exam, but my current commission doesn't expire until another four months. When will I receive my new commission?
Your notary public commission for reappointment will be issued 30 days prior to the expiration date of your current commission if you have completed with all the requirements to become a notary public.

Can the 6 hour course be taken in place of the 3 hour refresher course?
Yes, a 6 hour approved course satisfies the state requirement for a 3 hour course. A 6 hour course always satisfies the education requirement regardless if you are a new applicant or applying for reappointment.

Will I be required to take an approved course each time I apply for reappointment?
Yes, an applicant for notary public who holds a California Notary Public Commission and who has completed the initial 6 hour course of study from an approved vendor will be required to complete a 3 hour refresher course prior to reappointment for all subsequent terms. In order to meet the requirement to take the 3 hour refresher course, a person must apply for reappointment before their current commission expires. An applicant whose commission expires before application is made for a new commission must take an approved 6 hour course, even if the applicant previousl has completed an approved 6 hour course.

• Must be a resident of the State of California
• Be 18 years of age.
• The renewing Notary Public who has already taken the 6 hour course can take the approved 3 hour refresher course specifically designed for renewing Notary Publics. In order to meet the requirements for the 3 hour course, you must apply for reappointment of your notary commission before your current commission expires. If the current commission expires before the application is made, the person applying will need to take an approved 6 hour course before being reappointed as a Notary Public.
• Pass a written examination
• Complete the application
• Pass background check for FBI and DOJ by LiveScan Fingerprint
• No Felony conviction
• Here is a link to the notary qualifications: http://www.sos.ca.gov/business/notary/qualifications.htm