Notary Public in Virginia

Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for VA

Est. Total Cost
$45
Education + exams + fees
Time to Complete
Approximately 3 weeks for application processing, plus up to 60 days to take the oath of office.
From start to licensed

How to Become a Notary Public in Virginia

To become a Notary Public in Virginia, applicants must apply through the Virginia Secretary of the Commonwealth. Key steps include meeting eligibility requirements such as being at least 18 years old, a legal resident of the U.S., and able to read and write English, as well as having no felony convictions unless pardoned or rights restored. There is no exam required, but the application must be notarized by a Virginia Notary Public and a $45 application fee is required. After approval, applicants must take an oath of office at a Circuit Court within 60 days and pay an additional $10 fee. Virginia Notaries may perform notarizations outside the state if the document is for use in Virginia or by the U.S. government.

Notary Public Requirements in Virginia

DetailVirginia
Licensing BodyVirginia Secretary of the Commonwealth
State License Required Yes
EducationAt least 18 years old, a legal resident of the U.S., able to read and write English, and a resident of Virginia or regularly employed in the state. No felony convictions unless pardoned or rights restored.
Exam No exam required
Application Fee$45
RenewalEvery 4.0 years
NotesApplicants must be at least 18 years old, a legal resident of the U.S., able to read and write English, and a resident of Virginia or regularly employed in the state. No felony convictions unless pardoned or rights restored. The application must be notarized by a Virginia Notary Public. There is an additional $10 fee paid to the Circuit Court when taking the oath of office. Effective July 1, 2024, notaries renewing their commission in good standing are no longer required to appear before the Clerk to take an oath.

Source: Virginia Secretary of the Commonwealth

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you get certified as a notary public in Virginia?
To become a notary public in Virginia, you need to complete the required education (At least 18 years old, a legal resident of the U.S., able to read and write English, and a resident of Virginia or regularly employed in the state. No felony convictions unless pardoned or rights restored.), pass the No exam required, and submit your application ($45 fee).
Is a notary public license required in Virginia?
You cannot practice as a notary public in Virginia without a state license from Virginia Secretary of the Commonwealth. The required exam is the No exam required.
How expensive is notary public licensing in Virginia?
The full cost to enter the field runs about $45, factoring in application fee ($45) and required training.
How long does it take to become a notary public in Virginia?
In Virginia, becoming a notary public generally takes Approximately 3 weeks for application processing, plus up to 60 days to take the oath of office., accounting for education requirements, hands-on training, and the exam process.

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