State Requirements
How to Become a Notary in North Carolina
North Carolina notary requirements, fees, bond amounts, and step-by-step instructions.
North Carolina Notary Requirements at a Glance
Exam Required
Yes
Surety Bond
$10,000
Commission Term
5 years
Education Required
6 hours
E&O Insurance
Optional (recommended)
Background Check
Not required
Application Fee
$50
Appointing Authority
Secretary of State
Journal Required
No (recommended)
Remote Online Notarization
Authorized
Must complete a 6-hour education course and pass exam.
Steps to Become a Notary in North Carolina
Meet Basic Requirements
You must be at least 18 years old and a resident of North Carolina. You must be a legal U.S. resident with no disqualifying criminal record.
Complete 6-Hour Education Course
North Carolina requires 6 hours of approved notary education before you can apply. Courses are available online and in-person from approved providers.
Pass the Notary Exam
North Carolina requires passing a state-administered notary exam. The exam covers notary law, procedures, and ethics. Prepare with practice tests and study materials.
Submit Your Application
Apply through the Secretary of State. The application fee is $50.
Obtain a $10,000 Surety Bond
North Carolina requires a $10,000 surety bond. You can purchase one from a bonding company for approximately $50–$200 for a 5 years term.
Purchase Your Notary Seal & Supplies
Get your official notary seal/stamp, notary journal (if required), and any other supplies needed for your practice.
Take the Oath of Office
Once your commission is approved, take the oath of office as required by North Carolina law. Your commission will be valid for 5 years.
North Carolina Notary Fee Schedule
Maximum fees a notary can charge per act in North Carolina:
| Notarial Act | Max Fee |
|---|---|
| Acknowledgment | $10.00 |
| Jurat (Verification on Oath/Affirmation) | $10.00 |
| Oath / Affirmation | $10.00 |
| Copy Certification | $10.00 |
| Signature Witnessing | $10.00 |
$10 per notarial act (effective 2024).
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to take an exam to become a notary in North Carolina? +
Yes, North Carolina requires passing a notary exam. The exam covers notary laws, procedures, and ethical responsibilities specific to North Carolina.
How much does it cost to become a notary in North Carolina? +
The application fee is $50. A $10,000 surety bond costs approximately $100–$200. Add $15–40 for a notary seal. Total startup cost is typically $175–$390.
How long is a notary commission in North Carolina? +
A notary commission in North Carolina lasts 5 years. After that, you’ll need to renew by filing a new application and bond (if required).
Can I perform Remote Online Notarization (RON) in North Carolina? +
Yes, North Carolina authorizes Remote Online Notarization. You’ll need to register as an electronic notary and use an approved RON platform.
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