Notary Public Permit Requirements in Los Angeles, CA

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

   Free·Immediate (online)

   Free

   Immediate (online)

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 (exam fee) + $15 (application) + bond cost·6–12 weeks

   $40 (exam fee) + $15 (application) + bond cost

   6–12 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 years·1–3 days

   $40–$80 for 4 years

   1–3 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/year·Immediate

   $40–$80/year

   Immediate

1. Los Angeles Business License (if operating a notary business)

   If you operate a standalone notary business (notary signing agent services, mobile notary, etc.) in Los Angeles, you generally need a Business License from the city. If notarization is incidental to another profession (e.g., attorney, bank teller), a separate business license may not be required.

   Official government source

   $100–$500/year depending on gross receipts·1–3 weeks

   $100–$500/year depending on gross receipts

   1–3 weeks

Official Sources

• California — Notary Public Requirements
• California Secretary of State

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