Application Fee
See agencyVerified by NC Board of Business
Notary Public Licensing in North Carolina
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for notary public in North Carolina, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 21, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
No exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Notary Public in North Carolina
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
License Type: Secondary license (another license is a prerequisite).
Exam and processing details
- No exam required
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
NC Department of the Secretary of State • Notary Public Section
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$39,230 median (19% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#46 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Confirm eligibility prerequisites (License Type: Secondary license (another license is a prerequisite).).
- 2. Complete approved education or training requirements.
- 3. Pass required examination steps: No exam required.
- 4. Submit the application to NC Department of the Secretary of State~Notary Public Section and monitor board communications.
Salary Insights in North Carolina
With a median salary of $39,230, Notary Publics in North Carolina earn 19% below the national median of $48,360. North Carolina ranks #46 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
SteadyQoQ Employment Change
+1.4%Average Weekly Wage
$1,298Median annual salary
$39,230Hourly estimate
$18.8619% below national median
Difference: -$9,130
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationNotary Public Salary Ranking
#46 of 50 statesfor Notary Public median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | Maryland | $60,470 |
| #2 | California | $57,020 |
| #3 | Rhode Island | $55,370 |
| #4 | Hawaii | $54,260 |
| #5 | New Jersey | $53,940 |
Nearby States Comparison
Notary Public licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| North Carolina | $39,230 | Varies by state board | No exam required | Varies by board |
| Virginia | $50,690 | Specific course required | No exam required | Varies by board |
| Tennessee | $45,570 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Georgia | $45,760 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 2-18 years |
| South Carolina | $48,470 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
License by Endorsement
Transfer requirements are state-specific. Use this quick matrix as a planning signal, then verify final endorsement rules with each board.
| State | Reciprocity Score | Tier | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| North Carolina | 33 | Low | Limited or restricted active licensing status. State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Virginia | 60 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Tennessee | 62 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
| Georgia | 60 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| South Carolina | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
- License status indicator: No longer licensed.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Official website verified
NC Department of the Secretary of State • Notary Public Section
2 South Salisbury St, Raleigh, NC, 27601-2903
Phone: 9198145400
Related Careers in North Carolina
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Architect | $87,990 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Audio and Video Technicians | $43,870 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Certified Public Accountant | $80,490 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Civil Engineer | $93,590 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Notary Public in North Carolina?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about Varies by board, but timing can change based on education track, exam scheduling, and board processing.
What exams are required for Notary Publics in North Carolina?
North Carolina lists No exam required as part of the licensure process for Notary Publics.
What is the typical Notary Public salary in North Carolina?
The median annual salary for Notary Publics in North Carolina is $39,230. Salaries range from $20,800 (10th percentile) to $59,840 (90th percentile).
How does the Notary Public salary in North Carolina compare to the national average?
Notary Publics in North Carolina earn 19% below the national median of $48,360, with a state median of $39,230.
How many Notary Publics work in North Carolina?
North Carolina employs approximately 3,910 Notary Publics according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Notary Public license to North Carolina from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: No longer licensed. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Notary Publics in North Carolina?
The licensing agency is NC Department of the Secretary of State / Notary Public Section. Review agency details at https://www.sosnc.gov/divisions/notary/become_a_notary.
How often do you renew a Notary Public license in North Carolina?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.