What is the minimum age to be appointed as a California Notary Public?

To be appointed as a California Notary Public, an individual must be at least 18 years old. This age requirement is established to ensure that the notary possesses the maturity and legal capability to understand the responsibilities and obligations that come with the role. At 18, individuals are considered legal adults in California, allowing them to enter into contracts and fulfill other legal duties that a notary public is expected to perform, such as verifying identities and witnessing signatures.

Younger individuals, such as those who are 16 or 17, are not legally able to hold such responsibilities, as they have not yet reached the age of majority. Similarly, the options of 21 and 25 years old exceed the minimum age requirement, which is simply set at 18. This regulation helps ensure that notaries are adequately prepared to carry out their duties effectively and responsibly.