Becoming a Process Server

California Process Server Regulations

Registration Requirements

California has comprehensive regulations governing process servers under Business and Professions Code §22350-22360. Any individual who serves more than 10 legal documents within California during one calendar year for compensation must register as a process server with the county clerk in their county of residence or principal place of business.

The registration requirements include:

• Must be at least 18 years of age

• Cannot have a felony conviction

• Cannot be a party to the legal action they are serving

• Must be a California resident for at least one year before filing

• Must post a $2,000 surety bond

• Must undergo a background check conducted by the Department of Justice

• Must file a Certificate of Registration with the county clerk

Registration Process:

1. Complete registration form from County Clerk/Recorder's office

2. Fingerprinting (Live Scan or FD-285 cards)

3. Purchase $2,000 surety bond

4. Submit two passport-style photos (2" x 2")

5. Pay registration fees (approximately $134 statewide plus county-specific fees)

Registration Fees (Sacramento County Example):

• File registration: $100

• File bond: $7

• Record bond: $20 for first page, $3 per additional page

• Live Scan fingerprinting: $49 plus rolling fees

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