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  • Gregory Finkelson

California Notary Exam

The California Notary exam is an important part of becoming a California notary public. It tests your knowledge of California notary laws, procedures and ethics.


The exam is based on the official California Notary Public Handbook published by the Secretary of State. It is comprised of 45 multiple-choice questions and requires a score of 70% or higher to pass.


In order to become a notary public, an individual must meet certain requirements set forth by the California Secretary of State. These include being a legal resident of California, completing an approved six-hour course of study, and passing a state exam.


In addition, a notary applicant must also pass a thorough background check and complete a detailed fingerprint scan. This process helps ensure that a notary has the honesty, credibility, and integrity necessary to carry out their duties effectively and responsibly.


The state exam for a notary public is given twice a year on the first Saturday in June and December at regional test centers throughout the state. It is a three-part examination that consists of scenario, research and multiple-choice questions.


The California notary exam is a proctored closed book examination that tests your ability to apply the legal knowledge required for your duties as a notary. It is based on the California Notary Public Handbook and you must pass the test with a score of 70 points to obtain your commission as a notary.


The test consists of 45 multiple-choice questions and you have 60 minutes to complete each question. Results are published in mid-May and November, respectively.


You must take the exam within six months of successfully completing your notary course. You must also bring a passport photo and proof of completion certificate to the exam.


The exam is scheduled twice a year, on the last Tuesday and Wednesday of February and July. On the first day, you will answer five locally developed essay questions and one performance test. The second day you will answer a local developed MBE multiple-choice test.


The California Notary Exam is administered by CPS HR Consulting at established test centers throughout the state. Check the CPS Exam Schedule for your area to find the date and time that's convenient for you!


To prepare for the exam, read the Notary Public Handbook and take a practice exam. The handbook covers all the laws and regulations affecting notaries public services.


Once you pass the state exam, you'll receive a commission certificate from the Secretary of State. In addition, you'll need to get a surety bond and file it with the county clerk within 30 days of obtaining your commission.


To pass the exam, candidates must receive a scaled score of at least 70. The scaled score ensures that candidates' scores compare to other exams taken at the same time.


Exam proctors are responsible for ensuring that exams are conducted in an honest and fair manner. They are also required to create a suitable environment for test takers. They can help limit distractions by closing doors and pulling window shades, and collecting personal devices like mobile phones before the exam.


Some schools and institutions have their own proctors, while others hire third-party professionals to handle these tasks. The job requires strong moral character, computer proficiency and communication skills.


To become a proctor, you must complete a professional training course and pass the state’s exam. The course will cover all of the necessary laws and regulations.


The exam is given immediately following the course and is based on the California Notary Public Handbook. Students should review the materials as often as possible before taking the exam. The exam includes a total of 45 items with a one-hour time limit.


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