South Carolina states that the Secretary of State commissions notaries public and keeps their oaths of office on file. The official reference manual says South Carolina notaries are appointed to ten-year terms.
The reference manual states that a South Carolina notary's jurisdiction extends throughout South Carolina, but not beyond its borders, and that notarial acts cannot be performed outside the state.
South Carolina launched registration for electronic notaries public and requires the notary to complete training, testing, and approved-vendor selection before receiving the electronic notarial certificate.
The South Carolina Secretary of State expressly states that electronic notarization differs from remote notarization and that South Carolina has not legalized remote notarization.
South Carolina items confirmed from official sources
- South Carolina commissions notaries through the Secretary of State.
- Commission term confirmed: ten years.
- South Carolina notaries have statewide jurisdiction within South Carolina.
- Electronic notarization is available through the state's registration process.
- Electronic notarization still requires the signer to be physically present.
- South Carolina has not legalized remote notarization.
This page is informational only and is not legal advice. Confirm current South Carolina requirements before applying, buying tools, or performing notarial acts. Reviewed March 14, 2026.