How to Become a Notary in South Carolina (2026)

Published February 18, 2023 · Updated May 21, 2026

Key Takeaways

No exam, no training, and no bond required
Application fee: $25 + $10 county filing | Commission term: 10 years
Must be a registered South Carolina voter
Maximum fee: $5 per notarization
Notary stamp recommended but not required
Processing time: 2-12 weeks
No RON: remote online notarization not currently allowed

South Carolina has one of the longest notary commission terms in the country (10 years) and requires no bond, no exam, and no training. The main requirement is that you must be a registered voter. The trade-off: no RON, and a low $5 fee cap.

Requirements

Be at least 18 years old
Be a resident of South Carolina and a registered voter
Be able to read, write, and speak English fluently
Submit accurate and complete application information

Disqualifying Factors

If a notary is found guilty of any offense listed in South Carolina’s notary laws, they will immediately lose their commission and can never obtain one again.

Step-by-Step Application Process

Step 1: Submit Your Application

Apply online or by paper through the South Carolina Secretary of State. Paper applications must be sent to your county legislative delegation for endorsement.

Step 2: Wait for Approval

Processing takes 2-12 weeks. You’ll receive your notary commission by mail.

Step 3: File with Your County Clerk

File your commission certificate with your county clerk and pay the $10 filing fee.

Step 4: Order Your Notary Seal

Purchase a notary stamp. See stamp requirements below.

Costs to Get Commissioned

Item	Cost
Application fee	$25
County filing fee	$10
No bond required	$0
Notary stamp (recommended)	$15-$25
Notary journal (recommended)	$10-$50
Total	$60-$110

Maximum Allowable Fees

South Carolina sets a maximum of $5 per notarization. Mobile notaries can charge travel fees, but the signer must agree to them in advance.

Authorized Notarial Acts

Take acknowledgments
Administer oaths and affirmations
Execute jurats
Witness signatures
Take verifications
Perform other acts authorized by law

Notary Stamp Requirements

South Carolina does not require a notary stamp. However, most SC notaries use one for convenience and authentication.

Notarizing for Family Members

SC does not explicitly prohibit notarizing for family members. Avoid notarizing documents where you have a direct financial or beneficial interest.

Penalties for Notary Misconduct

South Carolina takes notary misconduct seriously. If found guilty of any offense listed in state notary laws, you will immediately lose your commission and can never obtain one again. This is a permanent bar, not a temporary suspension.

Errors and Omissions Insurance

Not required, but recommended to protect against financial losses from errors or omissions.

Renewal

SC notary commissions last 10 years: one of the longest terms in the country. The renewal process is the same as the initial application.

Electronic Notarization and RON

South Carolina allows electronic notarization, but it must still be performed in the physical presence of the signer. Remote online notarization is not allowed. You cannot use a webcam or remote technology.

Becoming a Signing Agent

After receiving your commission, complete a signing agent certification program. SC is not an attorney state for real estate closings, so signing agents can handle loan document signings.

SC’s 10-year commission term is one of the longest in the country: only Pennsylvania (10 years) and a few others match it. Neighboring Georgia requires training and a journal; North Carolina requires an exam and sets a $5 fee cap like SC. The registered voter requirement is unusual. Most states only require residency.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a notary exam in South Carolina?

No. SC does not require a notary exam or training course.

Do I need a surety bond in South Carolina?

No. South Carolina does not require a surety bond.

How long does a SC notary commission last?

10 years: one of the longest terms in the country.

Do I need to be a registered voter?

Yes. You must be a registered voter in South Carolina to apply for a notary commission.

How much can a SC notary charge?

$5 per notarization. Travel fees are allowed if agreed upon in advance.

Can SC notaries perform remote online notarizations?

No. SC does not allow RON. Electronic notarization is allowed but must be in person.

Employer Obligations

Your notary commission is personal. It does not belong to your employer
If you leave your job, your stamp and commission go with you
Your employer cannot require you to skip proper notarization procedures
An employer who pressures you into misconduct may share legal liability

How to Become a Notary in South Carolina (2026 Guide)

Key Takeaways

Requirements

Disqualifying Factors