Quick Facts
Commission Term
4 years
Bond
$15,000
Application Fee
$40
Issuing Authority
California Secretary of State
Journal
Required
Fee Caps
Yes
Authorized Services
Core Services
Free Tier Acknowledgment
Authorized
Jurat
Authorized
Oath / Affirmation
Authorized
Affidavit
Authorized
Deposition
Authorized
Protest
Authorized
Copy Certification
Authorized
Bills in Chancery
— Not authorized
Witnessing
Authorized
Safe Deposit Box
— Not authorized
Advanced Services
Pro Tier Remote Online Notarization
Authorized
Marriage Solemnization
Authorized
eNotarization
Authorized
Electronic Copy Cert.
Authorized
Identity Verification Methods
- Government-Issued ID
- Credible Witness
Remote Online Notarization (RON)
RON Available
California authorizes remote online notarization. Additional requirements may apply.
Key Considerations
- California is the 44th state to authorize RON (SB 696, September 2023)
- RON not yet operational for CA notaries - expected by 2030
- CA residents can use RON from out-of-state notaries
- Personal knowledge PROHIBITED for identity verification (unique to California)
- Thumbprint required for real estate documents and powers of attorney
Regulatory Authority
California Secretary of State - Notary Public Section
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