Virginia Notaries Public

RoseMarie has been a Notary Public for the Commonwealth of Virginia, continuously since 1979. She may be reached at (703) 385-8631 if you need Notary Services in the Commonwealth of Virginia in the Northern Virginia area.

What is a Notary Public?

A Notary Public is a state official who is authorized to witness the signing of important documents such as acknowledgements and jurats, administer oaths and affirmations, certify affidavits or depositions, and certain other powers as provided for by law.

Who appoints Notaries Public and how long is an appointment?

In Virginia, Notaries Public are appointed by the Governor for a term of four years.

How much does it cost to become a Notary Public?

There are two fees associated with becoming a Notary Public for the Commonwealth of Virginia. The first is a $25 non-refundable fee payable by check or money order to the "Treasurer of Virginia" and is submitted with the completed application form. The second fee is $10 payable to the "Clerk of Court" and is paid at the time you receive your commission and are sworn into office. Check your locale as some Circuit Courts will not accept personal checks for this service.

How does one qualify to become a Notary Public?

To be appointed as a Notary Public for the Commonwealth of Virginia, one must be at least 18 years old, live or work in Virginia, read and write English, and have no felony conviction.

Does one have to take an exam to become a Notary Public?

No. Notaries Public are not given an exam in Virginia.

How does one learn what they can do as a Notary Public?

If appointed as a Notary Public, the Secretary of the Commonwealth will mail you a Notary Public handbook along with the letter acknowledging the appointment.

Is a bond required?

No, Notaries Public are not bonded in Virginia.

How does one apply to become a Notary Public?

Application forms are available at your local Circuit Court (civil division). You may call, write or appear in person to request an application. After completing the application, you may return it to the Clerk of the Court with a check or money order for $25 payable to "Treasurer of Virginia" or it may be mailed directly to the Office of the Secretary of the Commonwealth of Virginia to the address provided on the form.

What is on an application to become a Notary Public?

Part 1 requires typical information about yourself such as your name, address, social security number, age, criminal history, citizenship and previous service as a Notary Public.

Part 2 requires that your signature on the application be acknowledged and sworn to before a Notary Public. (Most of the Clerks of Court are notaries and will do this for you.)

Part 3 requires signature endorsements from two registered Virginia voters.

Part 4 requires recommendation by a state official such as a Judge, Court Clerk, Deputy Clerk, Commonwealth's Attorney, Assistant Commonwealth's Attorney, Virginia Attorney General, Assistant Attorney General or member of the Virginia General Assembly. The Clerk of Court can also help you with this if you do not have access to any of the required individuals.

How will I know if I'm appointed a Notary Public?

In 3-6 weeks, you should receive a letter from the Office of the Secretary of the Commonwealth advising whether or not the Governor approved your application for appointment. If approved, the letter will be attached to a Notary Public handbook summarizing the laws governing notaries public in Virginia. If there is a problem with the application, it will be explained in the letter.

In some jurisdictions, the Clerk of the Court will also send a letter asking you to come to the Circuit Court to take the oath of office before a Deputy Clerk and receive your Commission. If you do not receive a letter, and you've received the letter from the Secretary of the Commonwealth confirming your commission, wait 3-4 days and call the Clerks office and inquire as to whether it has arrived. Then follow the Clerk's instructions. After appointment, you have 30 days in which to claim your commission before it is returned to the Secretary of the Commonwealth.

How much can a Notary Public charge for services?

Acknowledgements,

Jurats,

Oaths & Affirmations,

Certification of an affidavit or deposition,

Notary-Certified copies

per notarial act.

Can a Notary Public charge for travel?

A travel fee is allowed if agreed to by the constituent requesting the Notary Public to travel.

How does one renew a Notary Public commission?

Notary Public commissions are not renewable. The procedure outlined above for filing a new application must be repeated near the end of your four year term for a new four year term.

If appointed, what is the jurisdiction of a Notary Public?

Notaries Public for the Commonwealth of Virginia serve for the Commonwealth, at large. This means that a Notary Public may perform notary services anywhere in the Commonwealth of Virginia.

Is a seal required in Virginia?

No. The Commonwealth of Virginia does not require the use of a seal. However, it's a good idea to have one for any document that may be sent out-of-state.

Can a Notary in Virginia perform civil marriage ceremonies?

No. The acts of a Virginia Notary Public are more limited than in some states. In order to perform civil marriage ceremonies, you must apply for, and become appointed as, a marriage celebrant which is a separate office and appointed by Circuit Court judges for each jurisdiction.

Who can I contact to become a Notary Public?

For information and an application, you can contact the Clerk of your local Circuit Court,

or you can call the Office of the Secretary of the Commonwealth at (804)786-2441,

or you can write:

Office of the Secretary of the Commonwealth

Notary Public Division

P.O. Box 1795

Richmond, Virginia 23214-1795

Last updated 2/7/99 Copyright RoseMarie Dorer

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