What it costs to become a notary in California
Some costs are set by the state, some by your county, and some depend on where you shop. Here's every one, and which numbers are fixed.
Updated October 31, 2026. Facts from the California Secretary of State, CPS HR; sources at the bottom.
- State application fee
- $40
- Exam retake
- $20
- Bond amount
- $15,000
- Filing deadline
- 30 days
Fixed state fees
The Secretary of State charges $40 for a new or reappointment commission application, paid at the exam site by check or money order. A retake after failing is $20.
Costs that vary
- Approved course. Each approved vendor sets its own price. Compare providers on the official vendor list.
- Live Scan fingerprints. You pay a fingerprint processing fee plus a rolling fee at the Live Scan location. The state doesn't publish one price.
- The $15,000 bond. The bond amount is fixed by law, but what you pay for it is the premium the bonding company charges, which varies.
- Seal and journal. Sold by many vendors at different prices.
County filing fees
You pay your county clerk to file your oath and record your bond. As published by each county in October 2026:
| County | Oath and bond filing |
|---|---|
| San Bernardino County | Filing $90, bond $55, recording $14 (listed separately; confirm total with county) |
| Riverside County | $76, includes recording a one-page bond |
| Los Angeles County | $48, includes first page of bond recording |
| Orange County | $28 registration + $15 bond recording |
| San Diego County | $64 filing + $14 recording |
| Ventura County | Sources differ; see county fee schedule |
Fees change, so confirm with your county before you file. Each county guide has the details.
Where to save
The cheapest mistake to avoid is failing the exam and paying again. Practice first with Notary Exam Prep.
Common questions
How much is the California notary exam?
$40 for new applicants and reappointments, $20 for a retake after failing.
How much does a California notary bond cost?
The bond must be for $15,000. What you pay is the premium set by the bonding company you choose, so it varies.
How much does it cost to file my oath and bond?
It depends on your county. For example, Riverside County lists $76 including a one-page bond, and Orange County lists $28 to register plus $15 to record the bond.
Sources
- Secretary of State: Notary forms and fees
- Secretary of State: Fingerprints
- 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.
Notary Exam Prep is open now: a practice exam plus exam-day strategy lessons, $19.99 one-time.