How to Renew Your NC Notary Commission Before It Expires
Every notary public in North Carolina is commissioned for five years. To continue notarizing, you must apply for reappointment within 10 weeks of your commission expiration date. Here, we outline the renewal process and answer some frequently asked questions.
How to Renew Your Commission
According to the Department of the Secretary of State, renewing your commission is similar to the initial application. As long as you still meet the state eligibility requirements, you can follow these steps to renew.
1. Access the Renewal Application Online
Sign in to the online account you created on the Secretary of State website when you first applied. Once logged in, it will show your commission expiration date.
If it expires within 10 weeks, you can complete the reappointment application by updating your information. Then, pay the $50 application fee online (with a $3 transaction fee) or by mail (payment must be received before taking the online exam).
2. Pass the Online Reappointment Exam
Once you have filled out and submitted the application, you will have access to the online reappointment test. It has 20 questions and a 30-minute time limit.
After you answer the questions, click Grade Test to see your score. You need a score of 80% or better to pass. The exam results page will tell you if you passed and give you the chance to review incorrect answers.
A person who fails the examination three times within 30 days must retake a notary public course, complete a new application and pay another non-refundable $50.00 commissioning fee.
3. Mail Your Notarized Application
Like your initial application, your renewal one must be printed, notarized and signed. Mail your notarized application to the Secretary of State's Notary Office:
The Notary Public Section
Post Office Box 29626
Raleigh, North Carolina 27626-06263
4. Complete the Oath of Office
When your application is accepted, you'll get a notary oath notification letter by email or to the address linked to your online account.
Take the oath of office at the Register of Deeds office in your county of residence within 45 days of receiving the notification letter. There is a $10 fee for the oath.
After taking the oath, you will get your new notary commission certificate.
5. Complete the Notary Commission Certificate Process
If you purchased your new notary stamp from us, email a copy of your commission to info@notaries.com so we can create it for you. Your stamp will meet or exceed all state requirements.
Are you interested in other supplies, such as oath stamps, gold foil labels or stamp ink? Check out our supplies store for everything you need for your new commission.
Renewal FAQs
How long is a North Carolina notary commission term?
Notary commissions are valid for five years.
How much does it cost to renew?
The total cost of renewing a North Carolina notary commission includes the commission fee, the oath fee and the cost of a new stamp and other supplies you may want. Visit our North Carolina notary page for great prices on all the supplies you need for your new notary term!
Do I need to take a test?
Most likely, yes. Only two groups of people don't need to take a test to be reappointed:
- A licensed attorney
- A notary who has been commissioned since July 10, 1991, and has never lapsed or faced disciplinary actions
How early can I renew my notary commission?
You may apply for your renewal 10 weeks prior to the notary license expiration date and no earlier.
My commission expired; can I still renew?
If you don't renew within one year of your notary commission expiration date, you will need to apply again as a new notary applicant.
