If you're a commissioned California notary public — or working toward your commission — you're required by law to carry a surety bond before you can perform any notarial acts. Here's everything you need to know.
What is the California notary bond?
The California notary bond (officially referenced as Bond-84 in state filings) is a $15,000 surety bond required by the California Secretary of State for all commissioned notaries public. It's a financial guarantee — not insurance for you, but protection for the public and the state if you make an error or commit misconduct in your notarial duties.
Important distinction: The notary bond protects the PUBLIC from YOU — not the other way around. If a claim is paid against your bond, you are personally responsible for repaying the surety company. This is why most notaries also carry E&O insurance (see below).
Is the notary bond required?
Yes — absolutely required. California Government Code Section 8212 requires every notary public to file a $15,000 surety bond with the county clerk in the county where their oath of office is filed, before performing any notarial acts. No bond = no legal authority to notarize.
How much does the California notary bond cost?
The $15,000 California notary bond for the full 4-year commission term costs approximately $40–$75 total — that's the entire premium for 4 years, not per year. This makes it one of the most affordable surety bonds in California. The premium is based on a small percentage of the bond amount, and because the risk is low for standard notaries, rates are very competitive.
Notary bond vs. E&O insurance — you need both
Most working notaries carry both a surety bond AND errors & omissions (E&O) insurance:
- Notary bond ($15,000) — Required by law. Protects the public if you make an error. If a claim is paid, you owe the surety company that money back.
- Notary E&O insurance — Not required but strongly recommended. Protects YOU if you make an honest mistake. Pays your legal defense and settlement costs so you don't have to repay the surety.
E&O insurance for California notaries typically costs $40–$100/year for $25,000–$100,000 in coverage. For mobile notaries and loan signing agents who handle high-value transactions, E&O is essential.
⚠️ Without E&O insurance, if your notary bond pays a claim against you, you're personally on the hook to repay the surety company — potentially $15,000 out of pocket. E&O insurance prevents this.
How to get your California notary bond
- Contact a licensed surety bond agent (that's us — we issue same-day notary bonds)
- Provide your commission details and contact information
- Pay the premium (typically $40–$75 for the full term)
- File the original bond with your county clerk within 30 days of your commission start date
- Keep a copy for your records
Get your California notary bond today
Same-day bonds issued. Bundle with E&O for complete protection.
