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After researching how to become a notary public in California and finishing the required six-hour education course, there's just one thing left to do before getting your commission: pass the exam.
Thankfully, scheduling the state-required notary exam is easier than you might think. This article walks you through some preparation tips and explains how to schedule your exam using CA's consulting service.
The Secretary of State requires all applicants seeking a notary appointment or reappointment to pass a written exam. This applies to everyone, from first-time notaries to seasoned pros.
The exam tests your knowledge of the state's notary laws and regulations. Its material is based on the education course and the Notary Public Handbook. The handbook changes every year, so always review the current version for up-to-date information.
The exam is closed-book, consisting of 45 multiple-choice questions with a one-hour time limit. The process, including registration, testing and proctor instructions, takes approximately 2-3 hours.
The first 40 questions cover the content listed below, while the other five are not scored. They are only included to collect information for future exams.
You must have a scaled score of at least 70 to pass the exam. A scaled score converts a candidate's raw score on one examination to form a shared standardized scale.
Exam results are usually ready approximately 15 to 20 business days after the exam date and sent to you through email or direct mail.
The Secretary of State uses CPS HR Consulting to conduct its examinations at test centers throughout the state.
After reviewing locations and dates for your area, you may register for the exam online. Simply create an online account through CPS and select your exam date and time.
After scheduling your exam, you'll get a confirmation letter via email or mail 1-2 weeks before the examination date. It will also be available in your online account under View Notifications.
No-show candidates are common, so if there are no openings near you, try a walk-in registration. Arrive at the test center 45 minutes early for a chance to get registered.
If you have any questions or concerns during the exam registration process, contact CPS HR Consulting.
You must bring the following materials with you to the testing center:
Only one of the following forms of photo identification is accepted:
*The name listed on your identification must match the name you print on Section 1D of the notary application (Full Legal Name).
Carefully review the application instructions before completion; errors on the application will delay your commission. Avoid errors by purchasing our comprehensive notary package. It offers detailed application instructions.
Don't forget your notary education course certificate of completion. If you purchased your course through us, you would've gotten it via email.
Also, bring a two-inch-by-two-inch color passport photograph of yourself to include with your application.
To pay the non-refundable exam fee, bring a check, money order, or cashier's check made payable to the Secretary of State.
New applicants and reappointments have a different fee than those who failed their last exam and are retaking it. Check your registration for up-to-date pricing.
During the exam, personal belongings are placed in a designated location. CPS recommends bringing only your I.D., application materials, number two pencils and a check or money order into the exam room.
Ready to schedule and pass your exam? Get started here.
If you're still in the research phase and haven't started your notary application yet, we can help! Our all-in-one California notary package includes detailed application instructions, the state-required education course and surety bond, a custom stamp and more!
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