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AB-1977 • 2026

Notaries public.

Notaries public.

Technology
Active

The official status still shows this bill as active or still awaiting another formal step.

Sponsor
Irwin
Last action
Official status
Senate - Third Reading
Effective date
Not listed

Plain English Breakdown

The source text cuts off mid-sentence at the end, so any requirements following that point are unknown based on this material alone.

Changes to Notary Public Rules and Online Services

This law adds a written exam for notaries renewing their commission, allows electronic signatures with security rules, sets specific fees for seal permits and platform updates, and clarifies payment rules when online sessions end early.

What This Bill Does

  • Requires applicants to pass a written examination created by the Secretary of State before they can be reappointed as notaries public.
  • Allows notaries to use an electronic signature that includes an image of their handwritten signature if stored on secure devices with multifactor authentication.
  • Sets the permit fee for manufacturers or vendors who make notary seals at exactly $100.
  • Requires the Secretary of State to review training courses offered by vendors for online notarization applicants.
  • Prohibits charging a service fee if an online session is terminated, but allows a limited technology fee equal to actual costs in specific cases.
  • Mandates that companies running online notarization platforms renew their registration every year and pay $50 to update their application information.

Who It Names or Affects

  • Notaries public who are applying for reappointment or performing duties electronically.
  • Manufacturers and vendors authorized to issue notary seals.
  • Companies that operate online notarization platforms or depositories.
  • The Secretary of State, which oversees appointments, exams, fees, and registrations.

Terms To Know

Multifactor authentication
A security method requiring more than one way to prove identity before accessing a device or online media.
Online notarization platform
A digital service that connects notaries and people needing documents signed through audio-video communication.

Limits and Unknowns

  • The official text provided is truncated, so some final details about fees or requirements may be missing.
  • Online notarization rules only become active after a technology project is finished by January 1, 2030, unless delayed further.

Bill History

  1. California Legislative Information

    Senate - Third Reading

Official Summary Text

Notaries public.