How to Become a Notary
To become a Notary Public, an applicant must meet the following eligibility requirements:

• Be at least 18 years of age.
• Reside in North Carolina or, if nonresident, be employed in North Carolina.
• Satisfactorily complete a Notary Public course of study that is approved by the Secretary Of State. The course must consist of not less than 3 hours nor more than 6 hours of classroom instruction provided by a community college in North Carolina, unless the person is a licensed member of the Bar of North Carolina.
• Purchase and keep (as a reference) the Notary Public Guidebook For North Carolina approved by the Secretary Of State that describes the duties, authority, and ethical responsibilities of notaries public.
• Submit an Initial Application (PDF) For North Carolina Notary Public form to the N.C. Secretary Of State, Notary Division office, along with a non-refundable application fee $50. (check or money order only). Mail application and fee to:
  Notary Public Division
  Department Of The Secretary Of State
  300 N Salisbury Street
  Raleigh, NC 27603-5909

Being Sworn In
Upon receiving notice from the N.C. Secretary Of State office that the application has been processed:

1. Contact the Register Of Deeds office to verify that your application has been received.
2. Go to Register Of Deeds office to be sworn in. 
3. Submit fee of $10 (cash, check or credit card).

Reappointment
The eligibility requirements for reappointment as Notary Public are the same. For Notary Public reappointment: no more than 30 days prior to expiration date, an applicant must submit a Reappointment Application For North Carolina Notary Public form (PDF) to the N.C. Secretary Of State, Notary Division office, along with a non-refundable application fee of $50 (check or money order only). Mail application and fee to:
Notary Public Division
Department Of The Secretary Of State
300 N. Salisbury Street
Raleigh, NC 27603-5909