How to become a notary in South Carolina
Notaries in South Carolina are commissioned by the Governor of South Carolina, through the South Carolina Secretary of State (Notaries Division). Here is who can apply, what it takes and what it costs, from the state's own rules, checked November 4, 2026.
Who can become a notary in South Carolina?
- Registered voter in South Carolina, at the home address on the application
- Able to read and write English
- Application completed with no significant misstatement or omission, signed in ink before a notary
What are the South Carolina notary requirements?
| Commissioned by | Governor of South Carolina, through the South Carolina Secretary of State (Notaries Division) |
|---|---|
| Training required | No. No training is required for a traditional commission; the Secretary of State offers a reference manual and webinar. Electronic notary registration (separate) requires an educational video. |
| Exam required | No. No exam for a traditional commission; electronic notary registration (separate) includes an online test. |
| Surety bond | None stated by the state |
| Application fee | $25 |
| Commission term | 10 years |
| Remote online notarization | Not authorized; South Carolina's 2021 Electronic Notary Public Act allows electronic notarization only with the signer appearing in person before the notary. |
Steps to become a notary in South Carolina
- Confirm you are a registered voter (scvotes.gov)
- Fill out the Secretary of State's Notary Public Application/Renewal form and take the oath by signing it in front of a notary
- Choose a payment method for the $25 fee (card payment link is emailed later; or enclose check or money order)
- Mail all pages to your county legislative delegation office (or the House of Representatives if your county has none)
- The delegation checks voter registration, endorses the application by the county's chosen method and forwards it to the Secretary of State
- Receive your commission
- Within 15 days, present your commission to the clerk of court in your county of residence to have it enrolled
How do you find a notary in South Carolina?
- Banks, credit unions, shipping stores and law offices often have a notary on staff. Call ahead, because not every branch does.
- A mobile notary travels to you for a travel fee on top of the state's notarization fee.
- Bring a current government photo ID and the unsigned document. Don't sign it until the notary watches you.
- A notary checks your identity and witnesses your signature. They can't give legal advice or tell you what a document means unless they are also a lawyer.
- Check that a notary is commissioned on the official South Carolina notary lookup.