California Notary Public Exam
Qualifications and commission: practice questions
Our California Notary bank has 26 questions on this topic. Here are 5 of them with answers; the full mock exam draws from every topic, like the real one.
Question 1
When a notary moves their business to a new county, what may they choose to do?
- Get a second commission
- File a new oath and bond in the new county
- Nothing; the old county keeps all the filings
- Resign and reapply
Show the answer
B. File a new oath and bond in the new county — They then need a seal showing the new county.
Question 2
When is a reappointed California notary's new commission issued, if all requirements are met?
- 30 days before the current commission expires
- On the day the old one expires
- 90 days after the old commission expires
- One year in advance
Show the answer
A. 30 days before the current commission expires — This avoids a gap in service.
Question 3
Who appoints notaries public in California?
- The Governor
- The county clerk of each county
- The Secretary of State
- The State Bar
Show the answer
C. The Secretary of State — The Secretary of State appoints and commissions notaries.
Question 4
What must a California notary do within 30 days after a name-change amended commission is issued?
- Nothing; the change is automatic
- Mail the old seal and journal to the Secretary of State
- File a new oath of office and a bond amendment with the county clerk
- Retake the exam
Show the answer
C. File a new oath of office and a bond amendment with the county clerk — Otherwise the name change is void.
Question 5
Is there a fee for notifying the California Secretary of State of an address change?
- Yes, $20
- No, there is no fee
- Yes, $15 per change
- Yes, $50
Show the answer
B. No, there is no fee — Notice must be sent within 30 days.