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Updated for 2026 • Official CA Secretary of State Exam Format

California Notary Public Exam Prep (200 High-Yield Questions)

Master all 45 exam questions with 200 realistic practice questions, timed simulations, and targeted flashcards. Pass the Secretary of State exam on your first attempt.

✓ 10 Free Practice Questions✓ Instant Statutory Citations✓ No Account Needed
California Quick Exam Facts
Total Questions:45 Questions
Time Allotted:60 Minutes
Passing Score:70% Minimum
Commission Term:4 Years
State Exam Fee:$40
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Everything You Need to Know About the California Notary Public Exam

To qualify as a commissioned Notary Public in California, candidates must demonstrate a thorough comprehension of statutory notarial powers, oath administration, verification procedures, and the civil and criminal penalties for official misconduct.

Commission Term

Your commission lasts 4 Years. Reappointment can be filed without re-testing if submitted prior to expiration.

Passing Grade

A score of 70% is strictly enforced. The exam is closed-book with multiple-choice questions.

Supervising Agency

Administered and monitored under the strict regulations of CA Secretary of State.

2026 Statutory Reference

Official California Notary Legal Glossary

Over 60% of test questions focus on precise statutory definitions, fee limits, and fine tiers. Review the full California vocabulary guide.

Open CA Glossary

Sample California Exam Questions & Answers

Browse individual questions with complete statutory explanations for California.

10 Free Questions
1
What are the core statutory age and residency qualifications to be appointed as a California Notary Public under Government Code section 8201?Qualifications, Commission & Fees
2
Once a notary public commission is issued by the Secretary of State, within how many calendar days from the beginning of the commission term must the oath of office and $15,000 bond be filed with the county clerk?Qualifications, Commission & Fees
3
A client brings a pre-signed affidavit to a notary public and asks for a jurat. Which procedural step MUST the notary enforce before completing the notarial certificate?Notarial Acts & Procedures
4
A document signer presents a foreign passport issued by the Government of Mexico that contains a photograph, physical description, signature, and identifying serial number. However, the passport expired 6 years prior to the date of notarization. May the notary accept this document as satisfactory evidence of identity?Notarial Acts & Procedures
5
For which of the following real property instruments is a right thumbprint NOT statutorily required in the notary public's official sequential journal?Notarial Acts & Procedures
6
A non-attorney notary public advertises notarial services in Spanish and includes the literal translation 'Notario Publico' on printed flyers. What are the statutory disciplinary consequences for a first and second offense of this prohibition?Misconduct, Fines & Penalties
7
A notary public willfully completes and executes a certificate of acknowledgment containing statements known to be false regarding the personal appearance of a party signing a deed. What civil penalty may be imposed by the Secretary of State or a public prosecutor for this offense?Misconduct, Fines & Penalties
8
Paul is hospitalized and unable to personally appear before a notary public to acknowledge a Quitclaim Deed. He signs the deed in the presence of his friend Sue, who agrees to act as a subscribing witness. Sue then appears before notary Nancy accompanied by a credible witness. How must notary Nancy handle Sue's request to complete a Proof of Execution by Subscribing Witness?Notarial Acts & Procedures
9
What is the statutory maximum fee a California notary public may charge for taking an acknowledgment or administering an oath/jurat for one signature?Notarial Acts & Procedures
10
A signer requesting an acknowledgment on a grant deed lacks any government-issued photo identification. She brings two neighbors to serve as witnesses, both carrying valid California driver's licenses. The notary public does not personally know either neighbor. Under California law, what must the notary do to properly perform this acknowledgment?Notarial Acts & Procedures