California Notary Public Commission & Exam Preparation2026 HandbookExam Schedule
CACalifornia Notary GuideCommission · Exam · Oath & Bond
Oath and bond

File the oath and $15,000 bond within 30 calendar days.

Calculate the filing deadline, identify the correct county clerk, and avoid an invalid commission.

Open application pathStart practice
Current exam structure45 questions · 60 minutes
40scored5pilot70scaled pass

Scaled scoring is not a simple raw percentage.

No extension is available.

The oath and bond must be filed with the county clerk where the principal place of business is located.

Complete the final qualification steps

  1. Read the commission start date.
  2. Purchase a $15,000 surety bond.
  3. Confirm county filing requirements.
  4. Take and subscribe the oath.
  5. File the oath and original bond within 30 calendar days.
  6. Retain proof of filing.
The $15,000 is the bond amount, not usually the price paid.

You buy a bond premium. The bond protects the public; it is not E&O insurance.