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This guide covers all the requirements, costs, processing times, and eligibility criteria to become a commissioned Notary Public in West Virginia.
Meet eligibility requirements
Submit the online application and affirm under penalty of perjury (no oath ceremony)
Pay the $52 filing fee
Receive your Commission Letter and order your seal
Begin notarizing once you have your Commission Certificate and seal
Optionally register for electronic or remote notarization (no fee)
Renew every five years with a new application and fee
The state of West Virginia does not require a notary bond. The notary commission is valid for five years. There is no formal oath ceremony required; applicants affirm under penalty of perjury as part of the application process. Notaries are not required to keep a journal, but it is strongly recommended.
The total cost varies based on required and optional supplies. Below is a cost breakdown:
| Item | Cost | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Filing Fee | $52 | Paid to the Secretary of State |
| Notary Seal/Stamp | $15–$35 | Required to perform notarizations |
| Notary Journal (optional) | $20–$40 | Strongly recommended for recordkeeping |
| Total Estimated Cost | $87–$127+ | Depends on supply vendors and journal use |
The Secretary of State generally processes applications within two to three weeks after receiving the completed form and payment.
To qualify as a Notary Public in West Virginia, applicants must:
Be at least 18 years old
Be a U.S. citizen or permanent legal resident
Reside or work in West Virginia
Be able to read and write in English
Hold a high school diploma or equivalent
Not have any disqualifying criminal convictions
Not have previously had a notary commission revoked
Submit the online application and affirm the truth of your responses
No notarization or bond is required for the application
Pay the $52 fee at the time of submission
After approval, receive your Commission Letter and order your official seal
Your notary seal must:
Be rectangular in shape (no larger than 1” x 2.5”)
Include your name, the words “Notary Public,” “State of West Virginia,” your address, and your commission expiration date
Include a border and be legible when stamped on paper
West Virginia does not require notaries to keep a journal, but it is highly recommended. A proper journal should include:
The date and time of each notarial act
A description of the document notarized
Names and signatures of parties involved
Type of identification provided
Any fees collected
West Virginia allows notaries to register for electronic or remote online notarization. There is no additional fee, but notaries must comply with all rules regarding secure electronic seals, signatures, and identity verification methods.
Notary commissions in West Virginia last five years. To renew:
Submit a new application before your commission expires
Pay the $52 fee
Order a new seal with your updated commission expiration date
There is no grace period; your commission must be active to perform notarial acts
Becoming a Notary Public in West Virginia is simple and affordable. With no bond requirement and a streamlined application process, you’ll be ready to begin notarizing documents within a few weeks. Make sure you follow all state guidelines and maintain professional standards with a proper seal and journal.
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