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).

North Carolina notary public

Exam required

What it takes to become a notary public in North Carolina, from the state's 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.

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Official sources

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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.