How to become a notary in Virginia
Notaries in Virginia are commissioned by the Secretary of the Commonwealth of Virginia. Here is who can apply, what it takes and what it costs, from the state's own rules, checked November 4, 2026.
Who can become a notary in Virginia?
- At least 18 years old
- Legal resident of the United States
- Able to read and write English
- Live in Virginia, or work mainly in Virginia and notarize for that job
- No felony conviction unless pardoned, vacated or civil rights restored
What are the Virginia notary requirements?
| Commissioned by | Secretary of the Commonwealth of Virginia |
|---|---|
| Training required | No. The official application process lists no required course; the Secretary publishes a notary handbook to review. |
| Exam required | No. No exam is listed in the official application process. |
| Surety bond | None stated by the state |
| Application fee | $45 |
| Commission term | 4 years |
| Remote online notarization | Yes; a commissioned traditional notary may apply for an electronic notary commission ($45 fee, electronic seal required) and electronic notaries may perform remote online notarizations. |
Steps to become a notary in Virginia
- Create a Notary Management Account and complete the online application
- Print the generated application PDF and pay the $45 fee online or by check to Treasurer of Virginia
- Have a Virginia notary notarize your signature on Part 3 of the application
- Mail the notarized application to the Secretary of the Commonwealth
- After the approval notice, go to your chosen city or county Circuit Court within 60 days, take the oath and pay the $10 clerk fee
- Recommissioning notaries in good standing renew online and do not need to return to the Circuit Court
Apply on the official Virginia site
How do you find a notary in Virginia?
- Banks, credit unions, shipping stores and law offices often have a notary on staff. Call ahead, because not every branch does.
- A mobile notary travels to you for a travel fee on top of the state's notarization fee.
- Bring a current government photo ID and the unsigned document. Don't sign it until the notary watches you.
- A notary checks your identity and witnesses your signature. They can't give legal advice or tell you what a document means unless they are also a lawyer.
- Check that a notary is commissioned on the official Virginia notary lookup.