After You’re Commissioned in California: Next Steps

You passed. Here is what to set up before and after you start notarizing in California, from official sources.

File your oath and bond (30 days)

Once the commission is issued, you have 30 calendar days from the start of the term to take and file your oath of office and file a $15,000 surety bond with the county clerk where your principal place of business is. The commission does not take effect until both are filed.

Order your official seal

Your seal must come from a manufacturer or vendor authorized by the Secretary of State, which needs a Certificate of Authorization to make the seal. Keep the seal secure and under your control.

Start a sequential journal

California requires one active sequential journal at a time. For deeds and other documents affecting real property, and for powers of attorney, the signer's right thumbprint goes in the journal. Report a lost or stolen journal to the Secretary of State right away.

Consider errors and omissions (E&O) insurance

The bond protects the public, not you. If a claim is paid, you may have to repay the surety. E&O insurance is optional and protects you.

Know your fee limits

The maximum fee is $15 per signature for an acknowledgment and $15 for an oath or affirmation. Record fees in your journal.

Loan signing as a side income

Some notaries also work as notary signing agents, handling loan document signings for title, escrow and signing companies. Those companies set their own requirements, often including a background check, E&O insurance and sometimes a private certification. Those come on top of your state commission and are not state rules. Demand and pay vary widely by area, and in some places attorneys traditionally handle real estate closings. The notarial fee itself is still capped by California law, so check California Secretary of State guidance before charging any travel or service fees.

Keep studying the rules

The full question bank is a good refresher on fees, journal rules and prohibited acts before your first notarization.