Frequently Asked Questions

COURSE FAQs EXAM FAQs COMMISSIONING FAQs
COURSE FAQs
TOP

EXAM FAQs


TOP

COMMISSIONING FAQs

  • Q. I received my commission package from the Secertary of State. Now what?
    A. The steps are as follows if you have purchased your bond and/or seal from us:
    1. Fax to 619-461-8467 or email us a copy of your notary commission or your "certificate of authorization to manufacture notary public seals" form so we can start processing your bond and/or seal.
    2. For order that include a seal: Mail us your original "certificate of authorization to manufacture notary public seals" form to P.O. Box 191404, San Diego, CA 92159. Once we receive the original "certificate of authorization to manufacture notary public seals" form from you, then we will mail your completed order to you.
    3. Please be sure to provide a return mailing address where you want your order shipped.
    4. Once you received the original signed, notarized bond from us then you can go to the county clerk to file your oath and bond.


    5. Please do not send your certificate via certified mail or anything that requires a signature at the post office as this may delay your order processing. Priority mail or regular mail please.

  • Q. Are you an approved seal vendor?
    A. Yes. We are on the approved seal vendor list under the name of "California Notary Bond and Insurance Services" in San Diego, CA.

  • Q. What are the steps to becoming a California Notary Public?
    A. The steps are as follows:
    • Obtain and complete the Notary Public Application
    • Register for the exam with us or through the CPS Human Resource Services website or by calling CPS at (916) 263-3520.
    • Be sure to read the Testing Information in advance
    • Register for an approved course of study
    • Complete the approved course of study and obtain your completion certificate
    • Obtain a 2x2 color passport pohoto and bring it with you to the state exam
    • Take and pass the state exam
    • Have your fingerprints taken
    • Receive your commission package
    • Purchase your notary supplies
    • File your oath and bond within the 30 day time limit

  • Q. What are the costs involved in becoming a Notary Public?
    A. Seminar and supply costs vary by vendor. Exam and fingerprint fees are set fees.
    The costs are as follows:
    • Approved Educational Course - $69.95 for our seminar, $54.95 for our self-study course with workbook or $34.95 for our online course
    • Color Passport Photo - approximately $10.00 - $15.00
    • Exam Fee - $40.00 for first time applicants and renewing notaries.
    • Fingerprint Fees Effective January 1, 2008: $32.00 to the DOJ and $19.00 to FBI, plus $15.00-30.00 "rolling fee" depending where you have the livescan taken.
    • Notary Supplies - Anywhere from $65.00 and up depending upon what supplies you purchase and where you purchase your supplies.

  • Q. How long does it take to become a notary public or renew an existing commission?
  • A. It takes approximately 6-8 weeks to receive your new commission starting from the date you pass the state exam. Your exam results are usually sent out within 15 business days of your exam date. You must submit your fingerprints for a background check. The Secretary of State's office receives the results of your background check, processes your application and then mails your commission to you within approximately 6 weeks.

  • Q. How can I get more information from the California Secretary of State?
    A. Visit the California Secretary of State's official website.

  • Q.I haven't received my commission package. How can I contact the Secretary of State?
    A. The phone number for the California Secretary of State is 916-653-3595.
    You may also email (recommended for a faster response!) the Secretary of State at notaries@sos.ca.gov.

TOP






Click here
to get
Adobe Reader





© 2004-2012 Allstate Notary Preparation, Inc. All Rights Reserved. California Notary Public Training Classes | Notary Supplies.