Becoming a notary in Riverside County
The state steps are the same everywhere in California. What changes in Riverside County is where and how you file your oath and bond. From Palm Desert to Blythe, Riverside County spreads its drop boxes out so you don't have to drive to the city of Riverside to file.
Updated October 31, 2026. Facts from the California Secretary of State and the county clerk; sources at the bottom.
- File with
- Riverside County Assessor-County Clerk-Recorder
- Deadline
- 30 days from commission start
- Bond
- $15,000
Where to file your oath and bond
Riverside County Assessor-County Clerk-Recorder
Mail: P.O. Box 751, Riverside, CA 92502-0751. Overnight delivery: 2724 Gateway Dr., Riverside, CA 92507.
How to file
In-person appointments are recommended. You can also file by certified mail or any delivery method that gives you a receipt.
Filing fees
The county states the notary registration fee is $76 and includes recording a one-page bond. Each additional page is $3.
Good to know
- Drop boxes are listed at 4080 Lemon St. and 2724 Gateway Dr. in Riverside, 38-686 El Cerrito Rd. in Palm Desert, and 270 N. Broadway in Blythe. The Temecula drop box is listed as temporarily unavailable.
- Mailed or dropped-off documents must arrive at least 10 days before the due date on your oath.
- Your oath must be taken in the county where you file it.
Taking the state exam
The current CPS HR schedule has no exam site inside Riverside County. Ontario (San Bernardino County) and Costa Mesa (Orange County) are the nearest listed sites. Check the CPS HR schedule for current dates, and practice first with Notary Exam Prep.
The rest of the process
Before you can file, you need to complete an approved 6-hour course, pass the exam, get fingerprinted and receive your commission. Our step-by-step guide covers each step, and our cost breakdown compares filing fees across counties.
Common questions
Where do I file my notary oath and bond in Riverside County?
With the Riverside County Assessor-County Clerk-Recorder. Mail: P.O. Box 751, Riverside, CA 92502-0751. Overnight delivery: 2724 Gateway Dr., Riverside, CA 92507.
How long do I have to file?
30 calendar days from the start of your commission. The Secretary of State says the deadline can't be extended.
Can I file by mail in Riverside County?
In-person appointments are recommended. You can also file by certified mail or any delivery method that gives you a receipt.
Sources
- Riverside County: Notary public
- Secretary of State: Oath and bond
- California Notary Public Handbook (2026)
Golden State Notary Pro is an independent education company, not a government agency. Rules and fees change; confirm with the official source before you act.
Related guides
Practice before you sit the state exam.
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