How to Become a Virginia Notary: Your Step-by-Step Guide

Alisha Francis • September 8, 2025

Becoming a Virginia Notary Public is a rewarding way to serve your community, assist with essential legal documents, and even start or grow your own business. At ANF Signings LLC, we help aspiring notaries navigate the process with confidence through our training and mentorship programs.



If you’ve ever thought about becoming a notary in Virginia, here’s everything you need to know:

✅ Step 1: Meet the Basic Requirements


Before applying, make sure you qualify under Virginia law. You must:

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


✅ Step 2: Complete the Application


You’ll need to submit a Virginia Notary Application online through the Secretary of the Commonwealth’s website. The application includes:

  • Your personal information
  • Employment details (if applicable)
  • An acknowledgment that you understand the laws and responsibilities of a notary


There is also a non-refundable application fee payable online.


✅ Step 3: Wait for Approval


Once your application is processed, you’ll receive notification that your commission has been approved. This usually takes a few weeks.


✅ Step 4: Take Your Oath of Office


When approved, your commission certificate will be sent to the Circuit Court in the city or county where you live or work. You’ll need to appear in person at the clerk’s office to:


  • Take your oath of office
  • Pay a small filing fee
  • Officially receive your notary commission certificate


✅ Step 5: Order Your Notary Supplies


To perform notarial acts, you’ll need a few essential tools, including:

  • A Virginia notary seal/stamp
  • A notary journal (highly recommended for recordkeeping)


✅ Step 6: Start Notarizing!


Once commissioned, you’re authorized to notarize documents anywhere in Virginia. This includes acknowledgments, oaths and affirmations, and other important transactions.


Many notaries choose to go further by offering mobile notary services, loan signings, and even remote online notarization (RON).


💼 How ANF Signings LLC Can Help You


At ANF Signings LLC, we go beyond the basics by offering:


  • 1:1 Notary Training & Mentorship – Guidance for new notaries to understand laws, responsibilities, and best practices.
  • Platform Practice Sessions – Hands-on experience to prepare you for remote online notarization (RON).
  • Business Coaching – Support to help you turn your notary commission into a successful business.


🎯 Final Thoughts


Becoming a notary in Virginia is more than just a legal role—it’s an opportunity to grow professionally, serve your community, and even build a thriving business. Whether you’re just getting started or looking to expand your services, ANF Signings LLC is here to guide you every step of the way.


📩 Ready to become a Virginia Notary? Contact ANF Signings LLC today to learn about our training, mentorship, and business support programs.


Email: support@anfsignings.com

Call: (540) 227-0087

Offices: Fredericksburg, VA & Pembroke Pines, FL

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