Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are the key highlights of the course?
Answer: Our California Notary Exam Classes are straightforward and informative,
taking place in a single day. These classes are designed to teach you the
fundamentals of being a Notary Public and prepare you for the California Notary
Public Exam. The official California Notary Exam is available immediately after
the approved six-hour class.
The curriculum presents the official California Notary Public Handbook in accessible
language and includes practice quizzes to reinforce your understanding. The class
emphasizes key information necessary for the exam and practical skills through our
Hands-On Training approach, covering:
ï‚· Various types of notarial acts
ï‚· Key elements of each notarization
ï‚· How to complete notary certificates
ï‚· Recording entries in your Notary Journal
ï‚· Proper identification of signers
2. What should I bring to class?
Answer : Acceptable forms of Photo Identification (must be current or issued within the
last 5 years) include:
- A driver's license or State DMV identification card
- A Canadian or Mexican driver's license
- A U.S. Passport or passport issued by a foreign government
- A U.S. Military identification card
Please note that no other forms of photo identification will be accepted.
Additionally, you must submit the following:
- A completed application form - [Get Application]
- A 2" x 2" color passport-sized photo attached to your application
- A check, money order, or cashier's check for $40.00 made payable to the Secretary of
State, with the candidate's name preprinted on the check (temporary checks and cash are
not accepted)
- Two (2) sharpened No. 2 pencils
What Are the New Mandatory Education Requirements?
Answer:
Starting July 1, 2005, all individuals appointed as notaries public must successfully
complete a course of study approved by the Secretary of State before receiving their
commission. (Government Code section 8201.)
The objectives of mandatory education include:
ï‚· Ensuring proper training for all notaries public.
ï‚· Providing a thorough understanding of the duties and responsibilities of a notary
public.
ï‚· Standardizing knowledge across all notaries public.
ï‚· Reducing complaints and lawsuits related to negligence or misconduct.
Upon completing the six-hour approved course, the notary education provider will issue a
certificate of completion. This certificate is valid for two years from the date of issuance,
and applicants must pass the notary public examination before the certificate expires.
Requirements for the Three-Hour Refresher Course
Notaries public who have previously completed an approved six-hour education course
and hold an active commission can take an approved three-hour refresher course. To
qualify, they must take the notary public exam and submit their application before their
current commission expires.
Can a Six-Hour Course Replace the Refresher Course?
Yes, an approved six-hour notary public education course satisfies the requirement for a
three-hour refresher course. It fulfills the education requirement for both new applicants
and those renewing their commission.