Meet the basic legal requirements for being a Virginia notary public. You must be 18 years of age or older. United States citizenship is not a requirement, although the ability to read and write the English language is required. Felony convictions under the laws of the United States, Virginia or any other state disqualify anyone from being appointed a notary public in Virginia, unless the person has been pardoned for the felony or had his rights restored. Virginia residency is a requirement, unless the person is a non-Virginia resident who is employed in Virginia and performs notary public duties in connection with their employment.
Obtain an application for appointment as notary public. Applications are available from the Clerk of every Circuit Court or from the web site maintained by the Commonwealth of Virginia as documented in the References section of this article.
Complete the application by answering all questions truthfully. Sign the application in the presence of a State of Virginia notary public or other Virginia officer authorized to administer oaths.
Submit the completed application and fee to the Office of the Secretary of the Commonwealth of Virginia. Make check or money order payable to the Treasurer of Virginia. As of May 2010 the fee is $45.00. Mail the completed application and fee to:
Notary Clerk
Office of the Secretary of the Commonwealth
PO Box 1795
Richmond, VA 23218-1795
Claim the notary commission within 60 days of notification from the Secretary of the Commonwealth. Notifications are mailed to the applicant and include where and how to secure the commission. Failure to claim a commission within the 60 day time frame cancels the commission.