To be eligible for the 3-hour course, your commission must still be active at the time of application. This course is a state requirement for renewing notaries and must be taken from a licensed education provider like us.
✅ Only for renewing notaries
✅ Approved by the California Secretary of State
✅ 100% online and mobile-friendly
You’ll need to complete the official Notary Application (Form SOS/NP-30), include a 2x2 passport-style photo, and submit a $20 application fee to the Secretary of State.
Yes, even for renewals, you must take the written exam again. The test is administered by CPS HR Consulting.
Bring your 3-hour course completion certificate
Bring valid photo ID
Pay a $20 exam fee
Schedule online at notary.cpshr.us
California law requires a new background check every time you apply for a notary commission. You’ll need to complete the Request for Live Scan Service form and get fingerprinted at a certified Live Scan location. Additional fees apply.
Once you pass the exam and your background clears, the Secretary of State will send you a Commission Packet in the mail. This includes your official Notary Commission Certificate and further instructions.
Within 30 days of your commission start date, you must:
Purchase a $15,000 surety bond
File your oath of office and bond with the County Clerk in your business county
Pay any required county filing fees
We recommend starting the renewal process at least 6 months before your commission expires to ensure there’s no lapse in your notary authority.
Take our state-approved 3-hour California Notary Renewal Course online and get back to work faster.