Jordan Z. Marks

ASSESSOR | RECORDER | COUNTY CLERK

County of San Diego

Authorized Notary Program

In California, notaries may apply for approval to issue confidential marriage licenses. This notary power is granted to certain selected notaries only. Each county clerk shall exercise reasonable discretion as to whether to approve applications. Notary publics undergo specific training to gain authorization from the County of San Diego for issuing confidential marriage licenses. Below is a summary of the program requirements.

Requirements for new applicants:

  • Be an active notary public in San Diego County. GC 8200 & 8213.
  • Reside in San Diego County. FC section 531(a).
  • Be ordained to perform ceremonies and in good standing. FC section 400-401.
  • Serve all qualified couples. FC sections 301 & 500.
  • Submit application and pay the $300 application fee. FC section 536
  • Attend the Recorder County Clerk course of instruction not to exceed 6 hours. FC 532
  • Pass the test (closed book with 80% or better).
  • Purchase a minimum of 12 confidential marriage licenses per year ($144 each).

Requirements for renewals:

  • Be an active notary public in San Diego County. GC 8200 & 8213.
  • Reside in San Diego County. FC section 531(a).
  • Be an active authorized notary in San Diego County.
  • Be ordained to perform ceremonies and in good standing. FC section 400-401.
  • Serve all qualified couples. FC sections 301 and 500.
  • Submit application and pay $300 application fee. FC section 536
  • Attend a renewal training course virtually.
  • Meet guidelines from prior year.
  • Purchase a minimum of 12 confidential marriage licenses per year.

Notaries that meet the above requirements and are interested in applying, should send an email to arccauthorizednotary@sdcounty.ca.gov.