There are specific requirements you must meet to become a Notary in North Carolina.
Please have your preferred method of payment (electronic check or credit card) ready for the application fee.
You can register and apply for your business on the North Carolina Secretary of State’s website.
Choose an email you look at often, as that’s the address they will use to contact you.
Be sure to complete the Notary Public application form on the website.
Don’t forget to pay the $50 fee when you apply.
The Secretary of State’s office will look at your application.
After approval, you’ll get an email with your commission certificate and instructions on what to do next.
After printing the certificate, sign it.
Make sure to have your oath of office administered by a current Notary Public.
After your oath is notarized, send a copy of the completed certificate to the Secretary of State’s Notary Public Section.
Buy a Notary seal that North Carolina approves.
You should also use a Notary journal to keep a record of your notarial work.
Although it is not required, having E&O insurance is a prudent decision. It protects you in case an issue comes up while you are notarizing papers.
Take part in additional courses and consultations from respected organizations like the BlueNotary Academy to help you improve your knowledge.
Are You a Business in North Carolina Looking for a Notary?
BlueNotary provides different ways to help you with your notarial requirements. You can use our network, your network, or our BlueMobile Notary teams, and we will always have a simple answer for you. Let us take some of that work from you; meet with our Solutions Team today! Whether you need a single website or a custom one, we can help.
Are You a Notary Looking to Start a Business?
Consider you are a notary and want to increase your business. We do have one, but it’s a course designed to help you quickly and effectively start growing your business. The course is designed for individuals who want to learn how to attract a steady stream of clients and are willing to put in the work.
Being a member of the Blue Mastermind Inner Circle
BlueNotary Pro Hybrid – Subscription for 1 Year
The ability to use our Leads Generator Database.
A Digital Certificate and Electronic Seal are provided by LIFETIME.
This course will teach you how to handle any document.
BlueBrick – We make it easy to create your notary website.
Training for Blue Masterminds
What do you need to become a notary in North Carolina?
In North Carolina, you have to meet specific basic requirements to be a Notary Public.
You must be 18 or older to participate.
Be either a U.S. citizen or a permanent legal resident.
You should be able to read and write in the English language.
Be a resident of North Carolina or be employed there (or be married to or the legal dependent of an active duty service member stationed in DE)
Not have any offenses that make you ineligible (see North Carolina code 29 Del. Code 4311(c) for details, or the Secretary of State’s office can explain)
Not have been found guilty of a felony or a dishonest or morally wrong offense (unless you have had your rights restored)
What Materials Are Required for North Carolina Notaries?
When you become a Notary Public in North Carolina, you’ll require some essential supplies to do your job.
A Notary Seal is a special stamp that leaves a mark on any document you notarize. You will find your name, title, state, and the date your commission expires on the card. Pick a stamp that won’t smudge or damage the documents you use.
In a Notary Journal, you will record every notarization you complete. It provides a legal document for your work.
How much time does a Notary commission last in North Carolina?
It is possible to renew your commission for another two years. If they wish, Notaries in North Carolina may renew their commission for a term of four years.
Is Bond or Insurance Required for Notaries in North Carolina?
The state does not require you to have a surety bond that protects individuals if you harm them financially as a Notary. Even though a surety bond isn’t necessary, you can choose to purchase Errors and Omissions (E&O) insurance if you wish. Having this type of insurance can cover your legal expenses if a problem arises while you are notarizing documents. It helps protect you as a Notary.
North Carolina Notary Public FAQs
Where can I go to have my document notarized?
A North Carolina Notary Public can perform notarizations anywhere in the state. You can perform your notary work anywhere within the state.
Who am I allowed to notarize?
Most members of the public can rely on you for notarization, but there are some exceptions you should be aware of.
You cannot notarize papers that involve you or your spouse financially. You cannot notarize for your spouse, parents, children, or siblings if they are named in the paperwork or will gain from the deal.
In North Carolina, the document and situation must be legitimate reasons for being notarized. You should verify the person’s identity using a valid ID and confirm that they understand the content of the document.
What should my price be for notary services?
The North Carolina Secretary of State sets the highest fee a North Carolina Notary Public can charge. The following outlines the costs that are approved:
The cost for a Traditional Notarial Act is $5 per act.
Electronic Notarizations charge a fee of $25 per act.
Traditional notarial acts may involve witnessing signatures on documents or administering oaths to individuals.
Can I Notarize Online in North Carolina, and How Can I Become an Online Notary?
As of August 1, 2023, North Carolina will permit the use of RON technology for notarizations. You can notarize documents electronically if you qualify as a North Carolina remote online notary.
What should I do if I move or change my name after I am a Notary?
For name changes, you can notarize documents with your old and new names until your commission ends, or you can change your Notary profile name. After the Notary Public Section is informed of your name change, you will get a name change certificate by email and can then order a new stamp with your new name. Changing your name does not incur any costs.
How can I renew my North Carolina Notary Public Commission?
Around 30 days before your commission is due to expire, you will receive an email encouraging you to renew. At renewal, you can pick a two-year plan for $50 or a four-year plan for $90. You are not allowed to apply for renewal before 30 days before your current commission ends.
How can I become an Online Notary in North Carolina?
We have explained the steps in our How to Become an Online Notary in North Carolina guide. This guide contains all the information you need to serve as a notary online in North Carolina.
