North Carolinanotary public requirements & rules
Exam requiredNorth Carolina notary law basics: exam requirement, commission term, bond, and how to prepare — from the official commissioning authority.
- Written exam
- Exam required
- Administered by
- Approved provider (6-hour classroom course required before exam); administered under NC Secretary of State approval; NC-licensed attorneys are exempt
- Commission term
- 5 years
- Surety bond
- $10,000 surety bond
- Notes
- Must complete 6-hour classroom instruction course within 3 months preceding application, then pass written exam with 80%+. Bond runs concurrent with 5-year commission term.
Preparing to be a North Carolina notary
North Carolina requires a written exam, and PrepTempo's Notary course covers the notarial concepts it tests — notarial acts, identifying signers, journals and seals, and unauthorized practice of law. Study your North Carolina statute on top of the core.
Free notary practice questions →North Carolina notary public FAQ
Does North Carolina require a notary exam?
Yes. North Carolina requires a written notary exam (Approved provider (6-hour classroom course required before exam); administered under NC Secretary of State approval; NC-licensed attorneys are exempt).
What are the North Carolina notary public rules for term and bond?
A North Carolina notary commission is typically 5 years. Surety bond requirement: $10,000 surety bond. Confirm current amounts with the official North Carolina authority.
How do I become a notary public in North Carolina?
Follow North Carolina commissioning steps: complete any required training or exam (Exam required), obtain the required bond if applicable ($10,000 surety bond), and apply through the official North Carolina commissioning office. PrepTempo's Notary course covers core notarial concepts for exam and practice readiness.
Official sources
Educational information only, researched July 2026 — not legal advice. Requirements change; confirm with the North Carolina commissioning authority. PrepTempo is not affiliated with any state authority or the National Notary Association.