If you've been wondering whether you can get a document notarized without leaving your house in North Carolina, you're not the only one. It's one of the questions we hear most often, and honestly, the answer is a little more layered than a simple yes or no. So let's just walk through it.
First, what does "online notarization" actually mean?
When most people say "online notarization," they mean signing a document and having a notary witness it over video, without anyone being in the same room. The notary sees you on screen, verifies your identity, watches you sign, and applies their seal electronically. The whole thing can happen in minutes.
But here's where North Carolina gets a little specific.
Three types of notarization, and what makes them different
There's in-person notarization, which is the classic version. You show up, bring your ID, sign in front of the notary, and you're done. Simple, no tech involved.
Then there's electronic notarization, sometimes called eNotarization. This is where the document is signed electronically, but both the signer and the notary are still in the same physical location. The signature is digital, but the meeting is not.
And then there's remote notarization, which is the true "I don't have to leave my couch" version. You and the notary connect over a video call, and the whole transaction happens online.
What North Carolina currently allows
North Carolina is in a transitional period right now, which is part of why there's so much confusion.
The state is building a permanent Remote Electronic Notarization (REN) program under the Electronic Notary Act. New administrative rules for that program took effect on July 1, 2025. But the permanent program doesn't go live for the public until the Secretary of State licenses the first platform to operate under those rules, and that hasn't happened yet as of 2026.
In the meantime, North Carolina is still offering Emergency Video Notarization (EVN). Governor Stein signed HB 517 in July 2026, extending EVN through 12:01 a.m. on July 1, 2027, or until the first REN platform is licensed, whichever comes first.
So the short version: yes, remote video notarization is available in NC right now. EVN is the pathway, and it's being actively used.
Can every document be notarized remotely?
Not quite. Most common documents, like affidavits, power of attorney forms, loan documents, and general business paperwork, can typically be handled over video. But certain documents, particularly some real estate closings and court filings, may still require in-person presence depending on the county and the institution involved.
A good notary will tell you upfront if what you need falls outside of what can be done remotely. If it does, they'll usually say so before you book, not after.
What to have ready before your appointment
Whether you're doing this virtually or in person, a little prep goes a long way:
- A government-issued photo ID (driver's license, passport, state ID)
- The document you need notarized, opened and ready on your device if you're going remote
- A stable internet connection and a working camera, for video appointments
- Any co-signers or witnesses the document requires, ideally confirmed in advance
Identity verification for remote sessions is stricter than in-person, which is actually a good thing. It protects everyone involved.
When in-person might still be the better option
Remote notarization is genuinely convenient, but it's not always the right fit. If you're not comfortable with technology, if your document involves multiple parties who can't all connect at the same time, or if the receiving institution specifically requires wet signatures, in-person is usually the cleaner path.
Some people also just prefer it. There's nothing wrong with wanting to sit across from someone when you're signing something important.
Not sure which type you need? That's what we're here for.
At MBP Services Corp, we offer both virtual and in-person notarization for clients across North Carolina, including Matthews, Charlotte, Mint Hill, and beyond. We're bilingual, so if you'd rather go through this process in Spanish, that's not a problem at all.
If you're not sure which type of appointment makes sense for your document, just reach out. We'll ask a few quick questions and point you in the right direction. No pressure, no guessing.
Book your appointment at virtualnotary365.com or give us a call at (704) 862-9867.
