Requirements To Become A South Carolina Notary
Let’s start with the basics. You’ve got to be a registered voter in South Carolina and at least 18 years old. No exceptions. You also need to live here permanently, temporary residents won’t cut it. If you’re wondering about education or background checks, nope, not part of the deal. But you do need to be able to read and write English.
So, if you tick those boxes, you’re already ahead of the game.
Understanding The South Carolina Notary Application Process
Filling out the notary public application might sound dry, but it’s straightforward. You download the official form, fill in your name, address, and voter registration number, and sign it. You’ll also need a money order for $25 made payable to the South Carolina Secretary of State.
Once everything’s ready, mail it to your county’s legislative delegation office. That’s where the real review happens.
Role Of The Legislative Delegation Office
This part confuses a lot of people. Your legislative delegation office is like the gatekeeper—they check that your application matches your voter registration, and that you live in the right county.
It’s not just paperwork—they’re making sure your notary commission is legit. Processing might take a few weeks depending on the office. So, yeah, patience is part of the process.
Receiving & Activating Your Notary Commission
Once approved, you’ll get your South Carolina notary commission in the mail. Don’t just toss it on the table. There’s more to do.
That letter includes your commission expiration date, so mark your calendar now. You’ll need to activate your commission by filing an oath with the clerk of court in your county. Without it, you’re not legal yet.
Filing Your Oath With The County Clerk
Here’s where things get official. You’ve got 15 days after receiving your notary commission to show up at your local clerk’s office and swear your oath.
Think of it as a mini ceremony (minus the balloons). Bring your letter, your ID, and probably a smile. Once you’ve done this, you’re a fully activated notary public in South Carolina.
Getting Your South Carolina Notary Seal
You can’t perform notarial acts without a notary seal. It’s your official stamp, and it’s required.
Your seal must include your name, your county, and the words “South Carolina Notary Public.” You can buy one online or from office supply stores that specialize in notary gear. No digital signatures yet, at least not without extra steps (we’ll get to that).
What Notarial Acts You Can Perform
So what exactly can you do with your shiny new title?
As a South Carolina notary public, you can:
- Witness signatures
- Administer oaths and affirmations
- Take acknowledgments
- Certify copies of documents
- Perform other authorized notarial acts
But here’s the kicker, you can’t notarize your own stuff, and you can’t help someone who isn’t there in person. No “he’s on the phone” shortcuts allowed.
Electronic Notary Rules In South Carolina
Thinking of becoming an electronic notary? Good call, but there’s a process.
Electronic notarizations are legal, but you need to register with the state’s office and use approved tech that supports electronic signatures and video confirmation. That means you’ll need tools like secure video recording and tamper-evident software. It’s not just a Zoom call and a wave.
What To Know About Notary Insurance & Bonds
Technically, South Carolina doesn’t require you to get a notary bond or insurance policy. But should you get one? Absolutely.
Even honest mistakes can cost you big. Many notaries take out errors and omissions insurance to protect themselves. It’s relatively affordable, and it covers you if something goes wrong with a notarized document.
Renewing Your South Carolina Notary Commission
Here’s what trips people up. Your notary public commission lasts 10 years, but the state won’t text you when it’s about to expire.
You’ll need to track your commission expiration date and file a renewal application through the same steps as your first go. That includes refiling forms and paying the fee again. No exam required, but you do have to register like it’s brand new.
Fees, Travel, & Income Expectations
Let’s talk money. Notaries in South Carolina can legally charge $5 per notarization. That’s it.
But if you’re travelling to meet a signer, you can add a travel fee, just make sure you agree on it beforehand. Some mobile notaries earn decent side income this way, especially those covering multiple counties.
What Happens If You Move Counties Or Change Names?
If you move to a different county or get married (and change your name), you’ll need to let the South Carolina Secretary of State know, ASAP.
They’ll update your notary public commission and might require a new seal. There’s a form for that (of course), and if you skip it, your acts might be considered invalid. Not a good look.
Common Facts And Figures About Becoming A South Carolina Notary
This table breaks down key data and legal facts for anyone navigating the process of becoming a South Carolina notary, including electronic notarizations, notary seal rules, and notary public commission timelines.
| Category | Requirement or Info | Applies To |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum Age | 18 years old | All applicants |
| Residency Requirement | Must be a registered voter in South Carolina | New & renewal applicants |
| Notary Commission Term | 10 years | Active notary public commission |
| Notary Seal | Required, must include name, county, and “S.C. Notary” | All commissioned notaries |
| Notarial Acts Allowed | Acknowledgments, oaths, affirmations, signature witnessing | South Carolina notary public |
| Electronic Notarizations | Permitted with enrollment and technology compliance | Electronic notary applicants |
| Filing Oath Deadline | Within 15 days of receiving commission | New notaries |
| Standard Notary Fee | $5 per notarial act (max) | General public |
Source: South Carolina Secretary of State’s Office, 2024 official notary guidelines.
Common FAQs
See below common FAQs about this topic.
What are the basic requirements to become a South Carolina notary?
What are the basic requirements to become a South Carolina notary?
You must be a registered voter in South Carolina, at least 18 years old, and submit a completed notary public application. You’ll also need to pay a filing fee and be able to read and write English.
How do I get a notary seal in South Carolina?
Once your notary commission is approved, you must purchase a notary seal that includes your name, county, and the phrase “South Carolina Notary Public.” It’s required for performing valid notarial acts.
Can I perform electronic notarizations in South Carolina?
Yes, electronic notarizations are legal if you’re enrolled as an electronic notary. You must follow state laws and use approved electronic signatures with video and record-keeping tools that comply with regulations.
How long is a South Carolina notary commission valid?
A South Carolina notary public commission lasts for 10 years. Check your commission expiration date so you can submit a renewal application in time to keep performing notarial acts without interruption.
