You do need it notarized, and yes you can get it notarized at the deputy registrar section so go there first so you don't have to stand in line and be told sorry, they do that next door....or... You could also run to your bank to have it notarized, their lines are shorter than those at the BMV and they usually don't charge if you bank there.
Not sure of you need hours of driving notorized. They will know if you have been practicing when you take your test
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