Notary Public Permit Requirements in Los Angeles, CA

Complete permit and license guide for starting a notary public in Los Angeles, Los Angeles County, California.

Verified 2026-08-27 5 stops $150–$500 est. 6–12 weeks to complete all steps and receive commission
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Not legal advice. Requirements may change — always verify with your local government authority before applying. Key agencies and fees on this page were re-checked against official government sources on .

Federal — start here

1 stop

  1. EIN (Employer Identification Number)

    Required if you operate as an LLC/corporation or have employees. Sole proprietor notaries with no employees may use their SSN.

    Official government source

    FreeImmediate (online)

State of California

3 stops

  1. California Notary Commission

    To become a notary in California, you must pass a state exam, complete a 6-hour training course (new applicants), pass a background check, and file an oath and bond with your county clerk. Commission lasts 4 years.

    Official government source

    $40 application fee (new or reappointment; includes exam registration; $20 re-take) + 6-hour course cost + $15,000 bond premium + county oath/bond filing fee6–12 weeks

  2. California Notary Bond ($15,000)

    Required for all California notaries. Must be filed within 30 days of receiving your commission. Also requires an Errors & Omissions policy (not mandated by state, but strongly recommended).

    Official government source

    $40–$80 for 4 years1–3 days

  3. Notary Errors & Omissions Insurance (Recommended)

    While not required in California, E&O insurance protects notaries from financial losses due to unintentional mistakes. Coverage of $25,000–$100,000 typically costs $40–$80/year. The National Notary Association offers bundled packages.

    $40–$80/yearImmediate

City of Los Angeles / Los Angeles County

1 stop

  1. Los Angeles Business Tax Registration Certificate (BTRC)

    If you operate a notary business in the City of Los Angeles (mobile notary, signing agent, etc.), register with the Office of Finance for a Business Tax Registration Certificate (BTRC). Registration is free; the annual business tax is gross-receipts-based, and businesses with worldwide gross receipts of $100,000 or less owe $0 under the Small Business Exemption with a timely renewal. W-2 employees who notarize as part of their job are not 'in business' and do not register.

    Official government source

    $0 to register; annual tax gross-receipts-based ($0 if worldwide gross receipts are $100,000 or less and renewal filed on time)1–3 weeks

Terminus

Open for business — est. $150–$500 · 6–12 weeks to complete all steps and receive commission

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Official Sources

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