Key Takeaways
- NC notaries perform three main types of notarial acts
- Acknowledgments, oaths/affirmations, and verifications/proofs
- All notarial acts require personal appearance before the notary
- Each act serves a different legal purpose
- Proper identification is required for all acts
Last updated: January 2026
Types of Notarial Acts in North Carolina
Under North Carolina General Statutes Chapter 10B-20, notaries public are authorized to perform specific notarial acts. Understanding each type is essential for the notary exam and proper practice.
Three Types of Notarial Acts
| Notarial Act | Purpose | Common Use |
|---|---|---|
| Acknowledgment | Confirm identity and voluntary signing | Deeds, mortgages, powers of attorney |
| Oath/Affirmation | Administer sworn statement | Affidavits, depositions, court testimony |
| Verification/Proof | Verify subscribing witness signature | When signer cannot appear |
Definition of Notarial Act
Under G.S. 10B-3, a "notarial act" or "notarization" means the act of:
- Taking an acknowledgment
- Taking a verification or proof
- Administering an oath or affirmation
Personal Appearance Requirement
Critical Rule: For ALL notarial acts, the principal (person signing) or subscribing witness MUST appear in person before the notary at the time of notarization.
| Requirement | Application |
|---|---|
| In-Person Appearance | Required for all traditional notarial acts |
| Same Time and Place | Notary and principal must be together |
| No Exceptions | Cannot notarize document signed elsewhere |
| Video Exception | Only with proper electronic notarization authorization |
Notarial Certificate
Every notarial act requires a notarial certificate that includes:
- The notary's signature (as shown on commission)
- The notary's official seal
- Commission expiration date
- Date of notarization
- Appropriate statutory language for the act type
Key Points for the Exam
- Three acts: Acknowledgments, oaths/affirmations, verifications/proofs
- Personal appearance: Always required
- Notarial certificate: Must include signature, seal, expiration date
- Same time and place: Notary and signer must be together
Test Your Knowledge
Which of the following is NOT a type of notarial act authorized for NC notaries?
A
B
C
D
Test Your Knowledge
When must a principal appear before a notary for a traditional notarial act?
A
B
C
D