Answering Common Questions from SC Notaries
What are the requirements to become a notary in South Carolina?
Notary applicants must:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Be registered to vote in the state
- Be able to read and write in English
- Be a South Carolina resident
- Submit an application with no significant misstatement or omission of fact
What can an SC notary do?
According to S.C. Code of Laws §26-1-90(A), notaries can perform the following notarial acts:
- Acknowledgements
- Oaths and Affirmations
- Attestations and Jurats
- Signature Witnessing
- Verifications
- Any other acts authorized by law
Visit our notary application guide to learn more about each act.
How can I become a mobile notary?
Mobile notaries in South Carolina must follow the exact same commission application process as a notary who plans to work in one location. The only difference is that a mobile notary travels to their client's location to perform their services and can charge an additional transportation fee.
Can a notary public officiate a marriage ceremony?
Yes, as long as the ceremony takes place within the state.
How much can a notary charge?
The S.C. Code of Laws §26-1-100(A) says notaries may charge up to five dollars per notarial act. Notaries must clearly display this fee. Mobile notaries can also charge an agreed-upon travel fee.
Do I need to do anything about my commission if I have changed my name?
Yes, you must inform the Secretary of State's Office by filing a Change of Status Request within 45 days of the change. You may file a Change in Status Request online through the state's Online Notary Portal.
Once you change your name, you'll need a new stamp and seal.
May I notarize documents in other states?
No. A notary public's jurisdiction extends only throughout the state of South Carolina (§26-1-80). However, documents originating from another state may be notarized as long it happens within South Carolina.
How do I resign my commission?
If you are resigning or no longer qualified as a notary, then you may complete the Change in Status Resignation Form on the Online Notary Portal.
Are notaries required to keep a journal of notarial acts?
South Carolina notaries are not required to keep notary journals. However, it is strongly encouraged.
It is a good idea to have a record of all notarial acts performed in case questions arise related to the execution of a document.
What kind of supplies will I need?
All South Carolina notaries need a stamp with an official seal. Other supplies that aren't required but are helpful include extra ink for the stamp, notary act template stamps and errors and omissions insurance.
Visit our supplies store to find everything you need during your commission.
Are attorneys automatically notaries?
No. Attorneys must apply and be commissioned like any other member of the public.
Does South Carolina allow remote online notarization?
No, remote online notarization is not currently allowed.
However, electronic notarization was signed into law in 2021. Title 26, Chapter 2 of the S.C. Code of Laws and Chapter 113, Article 4 of the S.C. Code of Regulations created procedures for electronic notary public registration.
Electronic notarization still requires the document signer to appear in front of a notary but allows for electronic documents and signatures.
What is a surety bond, and do I need one?
A surety bond is the notary's promise to uphold the notarial law. It protects clients who may be financially harmed by a notary's negligent act, whether intentional or by mistake.
Surety bonds are not required in South Carolina.
While a bond is not required, we recommend considering errors and omissions (E&O) insurance. E&O insurance protects the notary from liability. If a notary commits a negligent act or makes an error, E&O insurance can cover losses resulting from a claim — including legal fees.
