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How to become a notary public in North Carolina. Commission term: 5 years. Verified 2026-04-02. Data verified 2026-04-02. Source: LicenseMap (getlicensemap.com).
Notary Public
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5 years
Commission Term
before renewal
6 hours
Education Required
online allowed
Yes
Exam Required
80%
No
Bond Required
no bond needed
You must be a legal resident of North Carolina (or maintain a place of business there), be at least 18 years old, and be able to read and write English. You cannot have a disqualifying criminal record.
Complete 6 hours of notary education. Must complete a 6-hour classroom instruction course approved by the Secretary of State. Online courses are accepted. Education cost: $50-$150.
Must answer at least 80% of exam questions correctly. Passing score: 80%. Administered by: SOS-approved education providers.
Submit your application to the North Carolina Secretary of State. Application fee: $50 (SOS) + $10 (Register of Deeds oath fee).
Purchase an official notary stamp or seal that meets North Carolina requirements. Typical cost: $20-$40. Total estimated startup cost: $130-$250.
Once approved, you will receive your notary commission, valid for 5 years. You can then begin performing notarial acts in North Carolina. Remote online notarization (RON) is also permitted.
Minimum Age
18 years old
Residency
Must reside in NC or reside in a bordering state (VA, TN, GA, SC) and regularly work or have a business in NC.
Citizenship
U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident alien
Background Check
Not required
Not sure if you need a notary license? Check whether your state requires one.
Education
Required6 hours
Must complete a 6-hour classroom instruction course approved by the Secretary of State.
Online courses: Allowed
Exam
RequiredMust answer at least 80% of exam questions correctly.
Passing score: 80%
Administered by: SOS-approved education providers
Compare top-rated notary education providers in North Carolina.
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Surety Bond
Not RequiredNo bond required in North Carolina.
Errors & Omissions Insurance
Not RequiredNot required. Optional E&O insurance recommended.
Seal / Stamp
RequiredOfficial notary seal/stamp required.
| Fee | Amount |
|---|---|
Application Fee | $50 (SOS) + $10 (Register of Deeds oath fee) |
Bond Premium No bond required | N/A |
Stamp / Seal Purchased from private vendors | $20-$40 |
Education Course Varies by approved provider | $50-$150 |
Total Estimated Cost Application + oath + education + seal | $130-$250 |
Use our licensing cost calculator to estimate your total investment including education and exam fees.
Complete 6-hour approved education course
Pass exam with 80% score
Submit application with $50 fee to SOS
Take oath at Register of Deeds ($10 fee)
Receive commission
Purchase notary seal/stamp
Commission Term
5 years
Renewal Process
Must complete education and pass exam again. Submit new application.
Renewal Fee
$50 (SOS) + $10 (Register of Deeds)
Regulatory Board
North Carolina authorizes remote electronic notarization.
Additional Requirements
Must comply with NC RON requirements.
What Makes North Carolina Unique
North Carolina requires 6 hours of education and an 80% exam pass rate. No bond required.
Requires 6 hours of classroom education.
Must have high school diploma or GED.
No bond required.
Legally emancipated minors may also apply.
Must have a high school diploma or equivalent (GED)
Notary requirements in nearby states
Other professional licenses in North Carolina
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Study guides and practice tests for the notary public exam.
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