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How to Become a Notary in South Carolina

Feb 25

2 min read

Becoming a notary public in South Carolina provides a valuable service to your community while offering a flexible way to earn additional income. As a notary, you’ll be responsible for notarizing documents, administering oaths, and certifying copies. South Carolina offers a simple process for becoming a notary, with the opportunity to build a notary business that grows with your experience.


Why Become a Notary in South Carolina?

Becoming a notary in South Carolina can be a great business opportunity, and here’s why:

  1. Low Startup Costs – With minimal fees and basic equipment, you can become a notary with a small initial investment.

  2. Flexible Schedule – Notaries can work on their own time, making it perfect for those with busy schedules.

  3. Diverse Service Offerings – Expand your income by offering mobile notary services, loan signings, apostille services, and more.

  4. Steady Demand for Services – Notaries are in demand for real estate, legal documents, and various other needs in South Carolina.

  5. Serve Your Community – As a notary, you play a key role in preventing fraud and ensuring legal documents are properly executed.


How to Become a Notary in South Carolina, The Notary Business Blueprint, The Notary Blueprint

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify as a notary public in South Carolina, you must:

  • Be at least 18 years old

  • Be a resident of South Carolina

  • Have no felony convictions


Step-by-Step Process to Become a Notary in South Carolina

  1. Complete and Submit a Notary Application

    • Applications must be submitted to the South Carolina Secretary of State.

  2. Pay the Application Fee

    • The application fee is $25.

  3. Take the Oath of Office

    • The oath must be taken before the county clerk of court.

  4. Receive Your Notary Commission Certificate

    • Once approved, you will receive your notary commission certificate.

  5. Purchase Notary Supplies

    • Required supplies include a notary seal/stamp and a notary journal.


Fees for Becoming a Notary in South Carolina

Expense

Cost

Application Fee

$25

Notary Supplies

$50–$150

Total estimated cost: $75–$175


Other Potential Startup Costs:

  • Errors & Omissions (E&O) Insurance – $30–$100/year

  • Business Registration Fees – $25–$150 (if forming an LLC or registering a trade name)

  • Website & Marketing Costs – $50–$300 for a basic website and materials


Renewal Process

Notary commissions in South Carolina are valid for ten years. To renew your commission:

✔️ Submit a renewal application

✔️ Pay the $25 renewal fee

Renewals are straightforward and don’t require re-taking the oath of office.


How Much Can a Notary Charge in South Carolina?

  • The maximum fee is $5 per notarization.


Other Ways to Increase Your Earnings as a Notary:

Although the per-notarization fee is capped, you can still increase your income by offering:

  • Mobile notary services with additional travel fees

  • Document preparation and printing

  • Apostille services

  • Loan signings and after-hours services

These additional services can increase your earnings to $25–$75+ per appointment, depending on the services provided and location.


Resources for South Carolina Notaries

Start and Grow Your Notary Business

Becoming a notary is just the beginning—growing a thriving notary business is where the true potential lies.


Join The Notary Business Blueprint®, the best mentorship program for notaries looking to increase their income and scale their business.


✔️ Step-by-step guidance

✔️ Marketing techniques to attract clients

✔️ Community support and mentorship


Click below to join The Notary Business Blueprint® today!





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