Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to register with the Secretary of State or fill out an application before attending the seminar?
No.All seminar attendees will complete their application to become a notary during the seminar. You will be automatically registered to take the state exam on that same day. There is no need to contact the Secretary of State or CPS prior to your seminar. All of this is completed automatically with your registration.
What should I bring with me on the day of the class?
You will need to bring an approved valid ID such as a Drivers license (any state) and a check or money order for $40 made payable to the Secretary of State in order to take your exam. The State Exam is given around 4:00pm on the same day of the seminar. You should also bring a #2 pencil for the exam in the event the State Examination Proctors do not have enough with them. We will have pens, paper and all the study materials you will need. If you have an alien registration number, be sure to bring that number with you as you will need it for your notary application.
How soon will I know if I pass the State Notary Exam?
The State Exam is administered by the Cooperative Personnel Services (CPS) and within 7-10 business days of taking your exam, the you will receive a Pass or Fail letter. Remember, you only need 70% in order to pass. This means that you can miss up to 9 questions out of 30 and still pass. You may also go no-line at https://notary.cps.ca.gov to view your results. You will still need to wait 7-10 business days to view your results. CPS will not respond to your inquiry by telephone.
Once I take your class, how long will it be before I can start offering Notary Services?
Once the state informs you that you passed the exam (about 10 days after the exam) they will require you submit fingerprints via live scan. You will receive a listing and instructions on how this is accomplished in the mail along with your pass letter. It should only take 6-8 weeks once you submit your live scan for you to receive your letter of Commission and an Authorization to manufacture your Notary Seal. At this point, you may follow our instructions which will be given to you during the seminar in order to purchase your bond, notary seal and if you like, errors and omissions insurance. The cost on the notary seal should be around $15 and the bond should be around $28. Errors and Omissions insurance is not required, but if you do choose to buy E&O insurance, it should only cost you $12/year for a $15,000 policy!Please be aware of E&O policies offered through other companies that cost much more and fail to tell you that their premiums are good only for one year. The company we will recommend to you at the Notary Seminar offers a one-time payment for a 4-year policy that will last the duration of your commission!All of these items can be delivered to you within 24-48 hours if you like and then you will file your oath and bond with the county clerk’s office. The process is very easy and we will go over this procedure during the seminar. As always, our staff can assist you with any questions once you receive your Letter of Commission. You should be ready to start notarizing within just a couple of days of your commission!
What is your Seminar cancellation policy?
You can cancel a paid registration and receive a refund if it is done at least 72 hours in advance. Any cancellations within 72 hrs.of the seminar cannot be refunded, however you may transfer your reservation to another seminar without additional charge. (transfer is good for 90 days)
