North Carolina Notary Public Manual, 2026

The office of notary public plays a critical role in preventing fraud, ensuring that important legal documents—from deeds to wills—are properly completed and legally recognized. This 2026 edition of the NORTH CAROLINA NOTARY PUBLIC MANUAL, prepared by the North Carolina Department of the Secretary of State, provides statutory guidance, practical instruction, tips, and best practices for current and aspiring notaries, giving them essential tools to perform their vital public service.

For the first time, traditional and electronic notaries have everything they need in one manual, including comprehensive guidance on IPEN (in-person electronic notarization) and REN (remote electronic notarization), so that North Carolina notaries are equipped for the digital age. 

This edition serves as the official replacement for the 2016 manual and must be purchased and kept as a reference by all North Carolina notaries. 

Complimentary access to an online version of this content is included with the purchase of this paperback. Visit books.sog.unc.edu/redeem and (1) create an SOG account or log into your existing account and (2) enter the access code found on the inside back cover of the paperback.