Becoming A California Process Server

What is a Process Server

Process servers deliver legal documents to parties that are involved in legal proceedings. The types of documents California process servers deliver include: summons & complaints; subpoenas; discovery documents; plaintiff’s claim & order (small claims); unlawful detainers; orders to appear; wage attachments; bank levies; landlord/tenant notices and more. Process servers are required to follow federal and state laws.

How to Become a California Process Server

California process servers are not required to be licensed, but if a person serves more than 10 papers a year they must be registered in the County they live in or have their primary place of business.

This registration is valid statewide. Applicants must be a resident of the State of California for at least one year immediately preceding filing. No testing or education is required.

All applicants must post a $2,000 bond or cash deposit.

Licensed private investigators aren't required to register, but may not be permitted to serve bank levies and similar documents without being registered. This is according to the language requiring a registered process server serves said documents.

For more information, see the following:
[California Business and Professions Code §22350 and §22353]
[California Rules of Civil Procedure 410.10 - 418.11]

Getting Started

Once you’re a professional process server, it’s time to connect with other professional process servers and continue your education.

NAPPS provides membership to its national association which provides exclusive membership benefits, including opportunities to further your education, grow your network and get listed on a national database of professional process servers. To learn more about NAPPS benefits, click here.

NOTE: California requirements for process serving may change. Stay up-to-date on California process serving requirements by contacting your county clerk or recorder.

If you have questions or would like to learn more about process serving, contact us.

For more information

California Association of Legal Support Professionals

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