How to Become a Notary in Virginia
Complete step-by-step guide — requirements, costs, timeline, and how to build a profitable notary business in Virginia.
Virginia Notary Requirements at a Glance
Age & Residency
18+, VA resident
Bond Required
$10,000 (for electronic notarization)
Exam
Not Required
Application Fee
$52
Step-by-Step: Becoming a Notary in Virginia
Follow these steps to get your Virginia notary commission
Meet Basic Eligibility Requirements
Before applying, ensure you meet these requirements:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Virginia resident or have employment/practice in Virginia
- No felony convictions (unless civil rights restored)
- Be able to read and write English
Complete Professional Training (Highly Recommended)
Virginia doesn’t require formal training, but professional education significantly increases your success rate and earning potential.
✅ Our training covers Virginia notary laws, correct notarization procedures, avoiding liability, and building a profitable business. View Virginia Training Courses →
Purchase Your Notary Bond
Virginia requires a $10,000 (for electronic notarization) surety bond for your 4 years term.
Bond Amount: $10,000 (for electronic notarization)
Typical Cost: $50–75
Where to Buy: Licensed surety companies or insurance agencies
Submit Your Application
Complete and submit your notary application to the Virginia Secretary of the Commonwealth.
Application Fee: $52
Processing Time: 2–4 weeks
Commission Term: 4 years
Receive Commission & Order Supplies
Once approved, order your official supplies:
- Official Notary Stamp — name, commission number, expiration
- Notary Journal — required or strongly recommended
- Additional Supplies — ink pads, embosser, certificates, business cards
💰 Supply Costs: Budget $50–150 for quality notary supplies.
Start Your Notary Business!
You’re now a commissioned notary in Virginia. Here’s how to start earning:
Quick Start (Part-Time)
- • List on notary directories
- • Network with local businesses
- • Join signing agent platforms
- • Earn $500–$2K/month
Scale to Full-Time
- • Become a loan signing agent
- • Build title company relationships
- • Implement marketing systems
- • Earn $50K–$100K+/year
⚠️ Special Requirements for Virginia:
Virginia files through the Secretary of the Commonwealth (not Secretary of State). The $10,000 bond applies specifically to electronic notarization commissions.
Total Cost Breakdown
What You’ll Spend to Become a Virginia Notary
💰 Return on Investment: Virginia mobile notaries earn $55,000–$90,000+ annually. Northern Virginia (Arlington, Fairfax, Loudoun) is one of the most expensive real estate markets in America.
Northern Virginia’s proximity to DC, Amazon HQ2, and the Pentagon creates massive high-value loan signing demand. Richmond, Virginia Beach, and Roanoke add volume across the state.
What Our Students Say
Get Professional Virginia Notary Training
Increase your success rate and learn how to build a profitable notary business
Mobile Notary Side Hustle
- Complete VA requirements guide
- Step-by-step application process
- How to get your first clients
- Pricing & marketing basics
6-Figure Mobile Notary
- Everything in Starter Course
- Loan signing agent training
- Title company relationships
- Advanced marketing & SEO
- 6-figure business systems
- Signing service database (200+)
✅ 30-Day Money-Back Guarantee | ✅ Lifetime Access | ✅ Virginia-Specific Training
Expand Your Notary Income
Add specialized services to maximize your earning potential in Virginia
Become a Notary Anywhere in Virginia
Our training helps aspiring notaries in every Virginia city
How to Become a Notary in Other States
We offer state-specific guides and training across the country:
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to become a notary in Virginia?
The typical timeline is 2–4 weeks. No exam is required, so the process is relatively quick.
How much does it cost?
Total costs range from $100 to $400, including application fee ($52), bond ($50–75), supplies ($50–100), and optional training ($27–237).
How much can I earn as a notary in Virginia?
Virginia mobile notaries earn $55,000–$90,000+ annually. Northern Virginia (Arlington, Fairfax, Loudoun) is one of the most expensive real estate markets in America.
Do I need training?
Virginia does not require formal training. Professional education significantly increases your success rate, earning potential, and helps avoid costly mistakes.
How do I renew my commission?
Renew before your current commission expires through the Virginia Secretary of the Commonwealth. Your commission is valid for 4 years.
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This guide provides general information about becoming a notary in Virginia. Requirements may change. Always verify current requirements with the Virginia Secretary of the Commonwealth. This is not legal advice.