How long is the California notary exam?

60 minutes for 45 multiple-choice questions — about 80 seconds per question. CPS HR scores it on a 0–100 scale, and 70 is required to pass.

Is loan signing agent material on the notary exam?

No. Signing agent work is a career path built on a notary commission, and the state examination does not test it. Our bank keeps that material separate so mock exams draw only from state content.

How often can I retake the California notary exam?

California seats candidates no more than once per calendar month, so a failed attempt costs at least a month.

California Notary Exam Prep

The examination required to be commissioned as a notary public in California. Signing agent material is career training, not part of this examination.

California Notary Public Examination at a glance

Questions	45
Time limit	60 minutes
Passing score	Scaled score of 70 (scale 0–100)
Administered by	California Secretary of State, administered by CPS HR Consulting
Result	Reported as a scaled score from 0 to 100, with 70 required to pass. Results are emailed or mailed about 15–20 business days after the exam.
Credential term	A California notary commission runs for four years.
Eligibility	You must be 18 or older, a California resident, complete an approved six-hour education course, and clear a background check.

Examination, filing and live-scan fees are set by the state and its vendors. Confirm current amounts with the Secretary of State. Source: California Secretary of State — Notary Public

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What is on the California Notary exam

7 content areas. Each links to free sample questions from that area.

California Notary exam FAQ

How long is the California notary exam?: 60 minutes for 45 multiple-choice questions — about 80 seconds per question. CPS HR scores it on a 0–100 scale, and 70 is required to pass.
Is loan signing agent material on the notary exam?: No. Signing agent work is a career path built on a notary commission, and the state examination does not test it. Our bank keeps that material separate so mock exams draw only from state content.
How often can I retake the California notary exam?: California seats candidates no more than once per calendar month, so a failed attempt costs at least a month.

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