Becoming A Virginia Notary

Becoming a Notary in Virginia: A Comprehensive GuideVirginia offers an excellent opportunity for individuals to become commissioned notaries public, providing essential services to businesses and individuals alike. Whether you’re looking to start a new career, expand your skill set, or offer additional services within your existing business, becoming a Virginia notary is a straightforward process. This guide will walk you through the steps and provide tips to get started on your notary journey.

What Does a Notary Public Do?A notary public is a state-appointed official authorized to perform acts such as:

• Administering oaths and affirmations.
• Witnessing signatures on legal documents.
• Verifying the identity of signers.
• Certifying copies of documents in limited situations.

In Virginia, notaries can also perform electronic and remote online notarizations (RON), making their services even more versatile in today’s digital age.

Requirements to Become a Notary in VirginiaTo qualify as a notary in Virginia, you must meet the following requirements:

• Be at least 18 years old.
• Be a legal resident of Virginia or work in the state regularly.
• Be able to read and write English.
• Have no felony convictions (unless your civil rights have been restored).

Steps to Becoming a Virginia Notary

1. Complete the Application
   Download and complete the Virginia Notary Public Application from the Secretary of the Commonwealth’s website. Include all required personal information, affirmations, and signatures.
   
   • Helpful Tip: Ensure your name on the application matches your identification exactly to avoid processing delays.
   Find the application here: Virginia Notary Application.
   
2. Submit Your Application and Pay the Fee
   Send your completed application to the Secretary of the Commonwealth along with the $45 application fee. This fee can be paid by check, money order, or credit card.
   
3. Wait for Approval
   Once your application is processed and approved, you’ll receive an email notifying you to take your oath of office.
   
4. Take the Oath of Office
   Visit your local circuit court within 60 days of receiving your commission approval. Take your oath, pay a small fee (varies by county), and receive your official notary commission certificate.
   
   • Important Reminder: Failing to take your oath within 60 days will result in forfeiture of your commission.

What’s Next After Becoming a Notary?Once commissioned, you’re ready to begin notarizing documents! Consider the following steps to maximize your success:

• Purchase Notary Tools: Invest in a high-quality notary seal or stamp and a record book to log your transactions, as Virginia requires this for RON services.
• Learn Virginia Notary Laws: Familiarize yourself with the Virginia Notary Handbook to ensure you’re compliant with state regulations.
  • Download the handbook here: Virginia Notary Handbook.
• Market Your Services: Let people know you’re available for notarizations. Consider creating business cards, listing your services online, or joining directories like the National Notary Association (NNA).
• Expand Your Offerings: Add remote online notarization (RON) to your services. Virginia is one of the first states to allow RON, which lets you notarize documents via video conferencing.

Benefits of Becoming a Notary in Virginia

• Flexibility: Work full-time, part-time, or on-call.
• Income Potential: Charge fees for notarizations and add-ons like travel or after-hours services.
• Community Impact: Help individuals and businesses with vital legal processes.

Frequently Asked QuestionsHow long does a Virginia notary commission last?
Virginia notary commissions are valid for four years. You must renew your commission before it expires to continue providing notary services.
Can I notarize documents in other states?
No, a Virginia notary is only authorized to notarize documents within the state. However, you may notarize for out-of-state documents as long as the notarization takes place in Virginia.
How much can I charge for notary services?
Virginia law allows notaries to charge up to $10 per notarial act. Additional fees can be charged for travel or RON services, provided they are disclosed upfront.

Final ThoughtsBecoming a notary in Virginia is a rewarding way to provide a valuable service while earning additional income. By following the state’s straightforward process and equipping yourself with the right tools and knowledge, you can build a successful notary career or business.
Ready to take the first step? Visit the Virginia Secretary of the Commonwealth’s website to get started on your notary application today!