Requirements to become a Notary 

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• Be at least 18 years of age or legally emancipated as defined in Article 35 of Chapter 7B of the General Statutes.

• Reside or have a regular place of work or business in this State.

• Reside legally in the United States.

• Speak, read, and write the English language.

• Possess a high school diploma or equivalent.

• Pass the course of instruction described in this Article, unless the person is a licensed member of the North Carolina State Bar.

• Purchase and keep as a reference the most recent manual approved by the Secretary that describes the duties and authority of notaries public.

• Submit an application containing no significant misstatement or omission of fact. The application form shall be provided by the Secretary and be available at the register of deeds office in each county. Every application shall include the signature of the applicant written with pen and ink, and the signature shall be acknowledged by the applicant before a person authorized to administer oaths.

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All notary public forms are available at the North Carolina Department of the Secretary of State website.  You will need to mail the application form to the North Carolina Department of the Secretary of State.  The North Carolina department of the Secretary of State will notify you to take an oath at the Register of Deeds office.

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No appointment is necessary.  Once you receive notification from the North Carolina Department of the Secretary of State Office, come to our office any time between 8:00 am and 5:00 pm.  Bring your notice from the North Carolina Department of the Secretary of State’s office.  The $10 fee is payable by cash or check.  You must show a photo ID when taking the oath.