Applying for a Notary Public Commission

Read the “Revised Uniform Law on Notarial Acts.” West Virginia Code §39-4 which governs notary practice. On the application, you will be signing an oath that you have read and understand the requirements and will follow the law. Select the link above to read the text of the law.

• Complete the application(s) Online to apply for your initial appointment or to apply for recommission. Select the form number to download the application. The filing fee is $52.

• e-Notarization
  If you plan on performing electronic notarial acts (e-notarization), per West Virginia Code §39-4-19, you must also complete and submit the application for E-Notarization Authorization (Enterprise Registration & Licensing System). There is no fee to file the E-Notarization Authorization application.

• State or local government notary: If you are applying as a state or local government notary for the official duties of a state or local governmental entity (see West Virginia Code §39-4-31), your supervisor must provide a letter requesting your appointment for the fee to be waived. This letter must be included with your application. Federal employees are not eligible.

• Recommission: If you are applying for a recommission and your current commission end date is on or after June 3, 2018, you must use the new notary application with the revision date “Rev. 6/2018” in the upper left box of the application.

Wait to receive your commission letter and check your seal for accuracy. Your commission letter will provide the exact information you need on your seal. Check to ensure your Name and Address Information are correct as they appear on your Official Seal. If any corrections are needed please contact the Notary Division at (304) 558-8000. You must have your stamp made with the information provided in the commission letter. View a notary public commission letter example.

Order your rubber stamp seal. Search online or in the yellow pages for "Rubber Stamps" or "Office Supplies" to find a company that makes official seals. Provide the exact information given in your commission letter to the company making your seal. When you order, remind the vendor that the stamp must meet state specifications. Learn more information about the notary seal.

Receive your commission certificate, valid for five (5) years, and your notary handbook. When you receive your commission certificate, you may begin notarizing documents, but learn what to do before you begin notarizing documents.

Review the notary handbook and keep it handy where you provide notary services. Remember, improper notarization means financial liability for the notary. Every notarization must include the proper acknowledgement form. View the online West Virginia Notary Handbook.