Notary study guides: the official books for each state

New York: Notary Public License Law

The current edition is dated September 2026. It collects the laws a New York notary works under, rules on identity and record-keeping, and a long list of definitions.

The Department of State says the exam covers license law and a notary’s duties, as outlined in this booklet. There isn’t a separate official question bank.

• Appointment, qualifications and the 4-year term
• Powers, duties and fees
• Acknowledgments, oaths, affirmations and affidavits
• What you must print under your signature, and venue
• Identity rules and keeping records for 10 years
• What counts as practicing law, and misconduct
• Definitions, from affiant to venue

California: Notary Public Handbook

The 2026 handbook collects California’s notary laws. It isn’t enough on its own, because you must also complete a 6-hour course from an approved provider before the exam.

North Carolina: Notary Public Manual

The 2026 manual is published by the UNC School of Government and prepared by the Secretary of State. It costs $35. Renewing notaries must own the new edition before applying.

How to study with the booklet

1. Read it once all the way through, without taking notes.
2. Make a list of every fee, time limit and number in it.
3. Learn the definitions until you can explain each one in your own words.
4. Pay extra attention to what a notary must not do.
5. Test yourself with practice questions and go back to the parts you missed.