2.1 Notarial Acts
Key Takeaways
- North Carolina notaries perform acknowledgments, oaths, and verifications
- Personal appearance is required
- Proper identification must be obtained
- Maximum fee is set by law
- Electronic notarization is available
Notarial Acts and Prohibited Acts
Authorized Acts
| Act | Description |
|---|---|
| Acknowledgments | Confirm signature is genuine |
| Oaths/Affirmations | Administer sworn statements |
| Verifications (Jurats) | Sworn written statements |
| Signature witnessing | Observe signing |
Prohibited Acts
| Prohibited | Reason |
|---|---|
| Self-notarization | Conflict of interest |
| Financial interest | Bias |
| Legal advice | Unauthorized practice of law |
| Incomplete documents | Fraud prevention |
Identification Requirements
| Acceptable ID | Requirements |
|---|---|
| Driver's license | Current, photo |
| Passport | Current |
| Government ID | Current, photo |
| Personal knowledge | You know the signer |
Fees
North Carolina sets maximum notary fees by law. Check current fee schedule.
On the Exam
- Personal appearance: Required
- Prohibited acts: Self-notarization, legal advice
- Identification: Government-issued photo ID or personal knowledge
Exam Focus
For Notarial Acts, tie every act to identity, willingness, awareness, certificate wording, and recordkeeping. Notary exam questions often describe a signer, document, and request, then ask whether the notary may proceed. Check whether the signer personally appears, presents acceptable identification or credible witness proof, understands the transaction, and signs voluntarily. Also watch for the difference between acknowledgments, jurats, copy certifications, oaths, and affirmations. The safest answer is usually the one that refuses shortcuts and preserves an accurate journal and certificate.
Can a North Carolina notary provide legal advice about a document?
Which form of identification is acceptable for a North Carolina notarization?