Notary Services

Notary Public Applications

Applications and instructions to become a notary public are available through the Office of the Secretary of the Commonwealth.

Commission Expiration

A commission as notary is good for 4 years. The process for renewing a commission is the same as applying for an original commission.

Please note, if you are a notary whose commission expires in first few months of the calendar year (January, February, March) submit your application in January. Applications received prior to January will result in the commission expiring one year earlier than anticipated.
 
 In order to pick up the finalized notary commission at the Williamsburg-James City County Circuit Court Clerk’s Office, applicants must indicate this preference on the application.

Claiming a Notary Commission

 When the notary commission has been issued, the Secretary of the Commonwealth will send a notice to the applicant. Applicants must subsequently appear in person in the Clerk’s Office to receive their commission. No appointment is necessary. You should contact the Clerk’s Office to confirm your commission is ready.

 Commissions expire if not claimed within 60 days of the commission date. Applicants who do not claim their commission within 60 days must re-apply.

Fees

 When appearing to take the oath for your commission, you should be prepared to present the confirmation letter from the Secretary of the Commonwealth, have a photo I.D. and the Clerk’s fee in the amount of $10. Payment may be made by cash, check, or money order (payable to the Clerk, Williamsburg-James City County Circuit Court). Credit cards (Visa/MasterCard) are also accepted for the payment of such fees, with a $2 convenience fee added on.