How to Verify a California Notary Commission

Overview

A commission lookup can help a signer or receiving party review publicly available commission information. It does not replace transaction-specific due diligence, identity verification, or the receiving party’s own requirements.

Key points

• Search using the available commission information and review the returned record carefully.
• Confirm the record is current for the transaction date and compare it with the notary’s presented credentials when appropriate.
• Use official state information for final confirmation when a transaction has legal, financial, or deadline-sensitive consequences.

Official source and scope

California Secretary of State Notary Public Listing This guide is general information, not legal advice. Confirm current requirements with the official source and the receiving party.

Last reviewed: August 25, 2026.

Related resources

• California Notary Public Listing
• Items To Note
• Forms