How to become a notary in Virginia

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The Virginia Notary commission is valid for four years, after which you’ll need to renew it to continue as a Notary. Your commission expires on the last day of the month you were born.

The cost to become a Virginia Notary is $95. However, the final cost may vary based on where you purchase your Notary seal.

Once the state receives the application, the turnaround time is generally three weeks.

Find out how to qualify and what supplies you need to become a VA Notary.

To qualify to become a Notary in Virginia, applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Be at least 18 years old
• Be able to read and write English
• Be a legal resident of the U.S.
• Be a resident of or have a place of employment in the Commonwealth of Virginia

Additionally, applicants must not have been convicted of a felony under the laws of the United States or in the Commonwealth of Virginia, or the laws of any other state, unless their rights are restored.

Complete and print the application form.

Pay the $45 application fee online or by check/money order.

When paying online, ensure the barcode number on your printed application matches the invoice number on your receipt to ensure proper payment on your account.

Take your application to a Virginia Notary and have your signature on Part 3 of the application notarized.

Mail in your notarized application and payment receipt (if you paid online) or check/money order for the application fee to the Office of the Secretary of the Commonwealth.

If you're approved, a notice will be sent to both you and the Circuit Court clerk within two to three weeks.

Within 60 days of the notice, visit the Circuit Court to take your oath of office and pay the $10 fee.

Virginia Notaries are required to have an official Notary seal.

You can choose from either an inked stamp or embosser. The law requires that the seal be sharp, legible, permanent and photographically reproducible. The seal must include the following information:

• Your name as it appears on your commission
• The words "Notary Public"
• The words "Commonwealth of Virginia"
• Your Notary registration number (optional)
• The words "My commission expires _______ (date)" (optional)

If you choose to use an embosser, you’ll need an embosser inker to satisfy the requirement that the impression is able to be photocopied.

A journal of official acts isn't required but recommended by the state. If you perform electronic notarizations though, a journal is required. Learn about the importance of keeping a Notary journal.

Have more questions about being a Virginia Notary? Read on below.

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Last updated: Jan 27, 2025

Get everything you need with a full Virginia Notary Package.