How to Become a Notary in North Carolina

Want to learn how to become a notary in North Carolina? Becoming a notary public in North Carolina is an excellent opportunity to serve your community and contribute to the legal process.

Notaries in North Carolina are responsible for performing essential notarial acts, including administering oaths, taking acknowledgments, and executing verifications.

This guide will walk you through the entire process of how to become a notary in North Carolina, including eligibility requirements, application procedures, training, fees, and much more.

Eligibility Requirements

Before diving into the application process, it’s essential to understand the eligibility requirements for becoming a notary public in North Carolina. To qualify, you must:

• Be at least 18 years of age or legally emancipated
• Be a U.S. citizen residing in or having regular work in North Carolina
• Not have any felony convictions or crimes involving moral turpitude
• Have a high school diploma or its equivalent
• Be able to read, write, and speak English fluently
• Complete a mandatory notary public course and pass a required written examination, unless you are a member of the North Carolina State Bar

Application Process

Once you have determined your eligibility, the next step is to begin the application process. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to apply for a notary commission in North Carolina:

Step 1: Complete the North Carolina Notary Public Application

Download the North Carolina Notary Public Application and carefully follow the instructions provided.

You will need to leave the mandatory education information blank until you complete step 2 and have your instructor complete their section of the application.

Ensure that all information is accurate and complete, as any errors or omissions may cause delays or rejection of your application.

You will need to arrange for a notary public to take your acknowledgment under oath or affirmation that the information provided in the application is true.

If you have any questions about the application, contact the notary public section of the North Carolina Department of the Secretary of State for assistance.

Step 2: Complete the Mandatory Notary Public Course and Written Examination

All applicants, except licensed members of the North Carolina State Bar, are required to complete a six-hour notary course approved by the Secretary of State and pass a written examination with a score of 80% or better.

Locate a community college offering these classes and complete the mandatory education before proceeding to step 3.

Here is a link to the Secretary of State’s short list of community colleges.

Step 3: Submit the Completed Application Packet to the Notary Public Section

Send the completed application and a non-refundable $50.00 application fee payable to “NC Secretary of State” to the following address:

Notary Public Section

Department of the Secretary of State

PO Box 29626

Raleigh, NC 27626-0626

The Secretary of State’s office will process your application within 72 hours of receipt. Please allow two weeks to receive your notice.

Step 4: Take the Notary Public Oaths of Office

Upon processing your application, the Notary Public Section will send you an oath notification letter.

Visit the Register of Deeds in the county where your commission is issued to take the Oaths of Office within 45 days of the issue date on the oath notification letter.

If you fail to take the oaths within 45 days, you must resubmit a new application and $50.00 fee. Note that your notary commission is not valid until you take the oaths of office.

The Register of Deeds fee for administering the oaths is $10.00.

Step 5: Order Your Notary Supplies

Visit any office supplies store to purchase your official notary supplies, including your required North Carolina notary seal/stamp, North Carolina Notary Journal, and other necessary items.

Notary Public Duties and Responsibilities

As a North Carolina notary public, you are authorized to perform the following notarial acts:

• Take acknowledgments
• Administer oaths and affirmations
• Execute verifications or proofs

It’s essential to note that no notary public commissions are effective prior to the administration of the oath of office. Any notarial acts performed before taking the oath of office are considered invalid.

Notary Equipment and Supplies

As a North Carolina notary public, you will need specific equipment and supplies to perform your notarial duties. These include:

Notary Seal Stamp or Embosser

Your North Carolina notary seal stamp or embosser must include your name exactly as commissioned, the words “Notary Public,” “North Carolina” or its abbreviation “N.C.” or “NC,” and the county of commissioning.

If you choose an embosser, you will need a seal impression inker for it to be photographically reproduced. Round seals must be no less than 1 ½ inches and no more than 2 inches in diameter. Rectangle seals cannot be more than 1 inch high and 2 ½ inches long.

Notary Records Journal

Although not required by North Carolina law, it’s highly recommended that you maintain a notary records journal to keep all your notarizations secure in a durable, bound booklet with numbered pages and a glossary of terms and procedures.

A record book will help you recall past notarial acts and provide essential evidence if you are called upon to testify in court.

Business Cards and Marketing Materials

While not a requirement, having business cards and marketing materials can be helpful in promoting your notary services.

If you work for a company as a North Carolina notary signing agent, discuss with them if such materials are necessary.

Legal Risks and Insurance

As a notary public in North Carolina, you face certain legal risks. Errors and Omissions insurance (E&O) is optional but recommended to protect yourself against claims of negligence.

E&O insurance typically covers legal fees and damages based on the coverage you select.

Commission Term and Renewal

Your North Carolina notary public commission is valid for five years. You can reapply for a notary renewal ten weeks before the expiration date of your current commission.

Conclusion

Becoming a notary public in North Carolina is a rewarding experience that allows you to serve your community and contribute to the legal process.

By following the steps outlined in this guide, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a notary in North Carolina.

Remember to stay up-to-date with the latest notary laws and regulations, maintain your notarial supplies, and always act with professionalism and integrity.