How to Become a Notary in Virginia

How to Become a Notary in Virginia | 2026 Step-by-Step Guide

Thinking about becoming a Notary Public in Virginia? Whether you’re adding a new revenue stream or growing your business, this step-by-step guide makes it easy to get started in the Commonwealth of Virginia. 🖋️📜

✅ Virginia Notary Application Process

To become a commissioned Notary Public in Virginia, follow these steps:

✔️ Meet all eligibility requirements

🖨️ Complete and print the Notary application

💳 Pay the $45 application fee (online or by mail)

🖊️ Notarize Part 3 of the application

📬 Mail in your notarized application and payment

📩 Receive notification of approval

🏛️ Take your oath of office at the Circuit Court and pay the $10 fee

📦 Buy your official Notary seal

🕓 Virginia Notary commissions are valid for 4 years and expire on the last day of your birth month.

💰 Cost to Become a Notary in Virginia
Item Estimated Cost
Application fee $45
Notarization of application $10
Notary seal $30
Circuit Court oath filing fee $10
Total Estimated $95

💡 Additional costs may apply for journals or electronic Notary tools.

⏱️ Commission Processing Time

After submission, it typically takes the Office of the Secretary of the Commonwealth about 3 weeks to process your application. You’ll receive a notice of approval along with instructions for completing your commission at your local Circuit Court.

📋 Virginia Notary Eligibility Requirements

To become a Notary in Virginia, you must:

✅ Be at least 18 years old
✅ Be able to read and write English
✅ Be a legal U.S. resident
✅ Be a resident of or employed in Virginia
✅ Not have any felony convictions (unless civil rights have been restored)

🖥️ Application Process

Download or complete your application online via the Secretary of the Commonwealth

Pay your $45 application fee (online or by mail)

Notarize Part 3 of the application

Mail the notarized form and receipt to:

Office of the Secretary of the Commonwealth
Notary Public Division
P.O. Box 1795
Richmond, VA 23218-1795

🏛️ Circuit Court Oath of Office

Once approved, visit your local Circuit Court Clerk’s Office

Take your Oath of Office within 60 days of approval

Pay the $10 recording fee

🛠️ Notary Supplies

🖋️ Virginia requires all Notaries to use an official seal, which must be:

Inked stamp or embosser

Sharp, legible, and photographically reproducible

Your seal must include:

Your name (as listed on commission)

The words “Notary Public”

The words “Commonwealth of Virginia”

Optional: Registration number and commission expiration date

🗒️ A journal is not required unless you perform electronic notarizations, but it is highly recommended to keep accurate records.

🚀 Ready to Become a Virginia Notary?