How to Become a Notary in North Carolina

Every new applicant seeking a commission as a North Carolina notary public must take and successfully complete a six-hour notary course of classroom instruction approved by the Secretary of State (GS §10B-8a). The content of the course of instruction and the written examinations must involve notarial laws, procedures, and ethics. Furthermore, every applicant for an initial notary public commission must submit an application within three months of successfully completing the mandatory notary course and written examination. A first-time notary applicant must have his or her instructor sign and date the notary application. These approved notary courses are offered by local community colleges. All new applicants and notaries reapplying for a subsequent notary public commission must: Purchase and keep the most recent North Carolina Notary Public Manual. Take a written examination approved by and administered by or under the direction of the Secretary of State. Pass the written examination with a score of 80% or better. Exempt from the mandatory notary course and written examination are licensed members of the North Carolina State Bar (GS §10B-8). North Carolina licensed attorneys, although exempt, are strongly encouraged by the Secretary of State to take the mandatory notary course. Attorneys are also required to possess the most current notary public manual. Also exempt from the written examination requirement are notaries public who have been continuously commissioned in North Carolina since July 10, 1991 and have never been disciplined by the Secretary State (GS §10B-11[b][3]). The first-time notary applicants or renewing notaries can take the written examination three times in thirty days; however, if such individuals fail to pass the examination, they must take the mandatory notary course again.

Yes, must complete an approved training course.

Yes, an exam is required

No background check is required

New applicants seeking an appointment as a notary public and renewing notaries are not required by state notary statute to obtain a notary bond to be commissioned as a notary public in North Carolina. A notary public is liable to any person for damages that result from his or her negligence, errors, official malfeasance, or omissions. North Carolina notaries are encouraged to purchase a notary surety bond to insure themselves against such claims.

No bond is required

Yes, application and a fee required

Stamp Required