The California notary exam
Forty-five questions, one hour, and a scaled score of 70 to pass. Here's what's on it, what to bring, and how to get ready.
Updated October 31, 2026. Facts from the California Secretary of State, CPS HR; sources at the bottom.
- Questions
- 45 (5 unscored)
- Time limit
- 1 hour
- Passing score
- Scaled 70
- Fee
- $40 ($20 retake)
- Run by
- CPS HR Consulting
Exam format
CPS HR Consulting administers the exam for the Secretary of State. It has 45 multiple-choice items with a one-hour time limit. Five items are unscored, and you need a scaled score of at least 70 to pass. Plan to spend two to three hours at the site for check-in and the exam.
What it covers
The questions come from California notary law as taught in the 6-hour course and the California Notary Public Handbook: who can be a notary, acknowledgments and jurats, the journal, the seal, fees you can charge, identifying signers, and what a notary must refuse to do. The Handbook is free on the Secretary of State's site and is the best single study source.
How to register
Register online through CPS HR, or walk in on a space-available, first-come basis. Check the current exam schedule for dates and sites. Sites on the September to December 2026 schedule near Southern California include Torrance, Valencia, Costa Mesa, Ontario and Poway.
What to bring
- The $40 application fee ($20 if you're retaking after failing) by check, money order or cashier's check made out to the Secretary of State. No cash.
- Proof that you completed an approved course.
- Valid photo ID and the other items on CPS HR's "What to bring" list.
How to prepare
Read the Handbook start to finish, then practice under time pressure: 45 questions in 60 minutes is about 80 seconds each. Our Notary Exam Prep course is open now and includes a practice exam plus exam-day strategy lessons.
If you don't pass
You can retake the exam. The retake fee is $20.
Common questions
How many questions are on the California notary exam?
45 multiple-choice items, five of which are unscored, with a one-hour time limit.
What score do I need to pass?
A scaled score of at least 70.
How much does the exam cost?
$40 for new applicants and reappointments, or $20 if you're retaking after failing. Pay by check, money order or cashier's check made out to the Secretary of State.
Do I need to take a course before the exam?
Yes. You must complete an approved 6-hour course (or an approved 3-hour refresher if you qualify for renewal) before the exam, and bring proof of completion.
Sources
- CPS HR: Notary exam information
- CPS HR: What to bring
- CPS HR: Exam registration
- CPS HR: Exam schedule
- Secretary of State: Notary forms and fees
- 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.