Moving from Another State? How to Become a Notary in California
If you have been a notary public for years, the idea of starting all over in a new state can be rather upsetting. Luckily, if you are moving to California, you should not have a hard time adjusting. You will simply need to take a few steps to become a state-licensed notary in the State of California. Then, you will soon be on your way to becoming a notary in your new home, which can help you start a new business or find a new job.
1. Take Notary Public Classes in California
Even though you might not like the idea of taking notary public classes after you have already taken them in another state, it is a good idea to take notary public classes in California so that you will be prepared to take the exam. Luckily, you don't have to suffer through hours of classes at a local community college while surrounded by those who know nothing about being a notary public. Instead, you can take your classes online, which will allow you to prepare for the state exam while getting unpacked and adjusting to your new life in a new state.
2. Gather Paperwork
You are going to need certain paperwork to become a notary public in California. Since documents and such can easily get lost and misplaced during a move -- particularly a move from another state -- then it's a good idea to start looking for and gathering up these things as soon as possible. For example, you will need proof of your age and identity, so you might want to contact the Department of Motor Vehicles to get an updated California driver's license or identification card. You will also need to undergo a background check and fingerprinting; make sure that you get a copy of your background check from both the State of California and your home state so that you do not have any problems.
3. Take the Examination
Even though you might have taken the examination to become a notary public in your home state, you are going to have to take it again to become a state-licensed notary public in California.
Luckily, since you have already worked as a notary public in the past, you shouldn't have too much trouble with this step. However, you might still be nervous about taking a test, particularly in a new state.
If you take an online notary public class, however, you should not have to worry. Your course should serve as a refresher, so it can help remind you of things that you might have forgotten. It will also be helpful because it will teach you any laws that might be different from your home state.
Along with learning these differences in your course and refreshing your memory about things that you might have forgotten, you will also have the chance to take practice tests. This can help you get adjusted to the testing format and can put you in the right frame of mind to do well on your examination.
If you are moving from another state to the great State of California, you are probably pretty excited about getting settled into your new home and beginning work in the field that you know and love. Although the idea of starting from scratch might be upsetting, you have nothing to worry about. As long as you choose the right notary public course -- such as an online option that will work with your new schedule after your move -- and follow these three steps, you will be on your way to being a state-licensed notary public in California in no time.