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The Real Cost of Becoming a Notary Public: Beyond the Glamour and TikToks

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We’ve all seen the glamorous TikToks and YouTube videos: notaries driving sleek cars, living their best mobile life, and cashing in $150 per loan signing. It looks like the ultimate work-from-anywhere job. But here’s the truth no one tells you — becoming a notary isn’t cheap, and it’s far from instant money.

I want to share my personal journey and real numbers to help anyone out there who’s considering diving into this career. This isn’t a post to discourage you — it’s one to prepare you.

Step-by-Step: What It Really Costs to Become a Notary in North Carolina

1. The Notary Class & Application

  • Notary Public Class: $147 (at CPCC or similar)
  • Secretary of State Application Fee: $50
  • Register of Deeds Fee: $10 (plus printed approval email + ID)

Subtotal so far: $210

2. Basic Notary Supplies

  • Notary Stamp
  • Journal
  • Notary Bag
  • Clipboard
  • Receipt Book
  • Pens, Stapler, Highlighters

Estimated Cost: $200

3. Electronic Notary (e-Notary) Certification

  • 4-Hour e-Notary Class: $102
  • e-Notary Application Fee: $50
  • Notary Bond + Insurance: $100–$200
  • Electronic Notary Seal: $20–$50
  • Live Scan Fingerprinting: $45–$80

Estimated Cost: $300–$400

4. Loan Signing Agent Certification

  • Loan Signing Training Course: $299 (Loan Signing System or similar)
  • NNA Membership + Background Check: $300

Subtotal: $599

5. Office Equipment

  • Dual Tray Printer: $300–$700 (Epson, Brother, HP)
  • Portable Scanner: $200+
  • Mobile Hotspot/Internet on the Go: $20+/month

Estimated Equipment Cost: $700–$1,000+

6. Marketing & Business Setup

  • Business Cards: $20–$50
  • Website (optional): $50–$100/year
  • Advertising (Google, Yelp, Thumbtack): Variable

Total Estimated Investment to Become a Fully-Equipped Notary Signing Agent: $1,800 – $2,900+

This doesn’t include gas, car maintenance, scheduling tools, or continuing education — all of which add up over time.

My Personal Experience

Right now, I’ve completed the notary class, submitted my application, taken my oath, and purchased my basic supplies. I’m still working my way through the rest — step by step, as funds allow.

So when people ask why I haven’t made $5,000 yet — it’s because I’m building a business from the ground up. I don’t have a trust fund or a $3,000 cushion to get started. And that’s okay. Because slow progress is still progress.

Like they say: it’s a marathon, not a sprint.

Want to Get Started? Here’s Where to Begin:

If you found this helpful, share it with someone thinking of becoming a notary. And if you’re on this journey too — I see you, I support you, and I’m rooting for you.