The best magazine
- 1). Download the Handbook for Virginia Notaries Public. This handbook is available on the Secretary of Commonwealth website (see the link in the Reference section below). This book outlines the requirements and duties of a notary public. Use this handbook to determine whether you meet the requirements to get a notary public commission in Bedford County. You must be at least 18 years old, be able to read and write English, with no felony convictions. The only exception to the latter requirement is if the governor has restored your civil rights.
- 2). Get the notary application. You can download this form from the Secretary of the Commonwealth website (see the link in the Reference section) or obtain it from the circuit court in Bedford County.
- 3). Complete the application. List your personal information including your name, home address, business address, telephone number, email address and date of birth. Print your name exactly as it appears on your state issued ID. Indicate the circuit court where you want to take the oath of office. Write “Bedford Circuit Court” if you are going to take the oath in Bedford County. Check each box confirming that you meet the requirements for a notary commission listed in Step 1.
- 4). Initial each statement. The statements describe the duties of a Virginia notary, including which documents cannot be notarized, the fee you can charge for a notarization and the required information you must put on each notarized document. Once the application is completely filled out, sign it in the presence of a Virginia notary.
- 5). Mail the application and fee to:
Secretary of the Commonwealth-Notary Division
P.O. Box 1795
Richmond, VA 23218-1795
As of 2010, the fee is $45 made payable to the Treasurer of Virginia. Once your application is approved, the Notary Division mails your commission to the Bedford Circuit Court. You also receive notification of your approval. Once you have approval, take the oath of office. If your application is rejected, you will be given the reason why. - 6). Take the oath of office. You have 60 days to swear the oath of office and file your commission with the Bedford Circuit Court Clerk. You swear the oath in front of the clerk stating that you are familiar with the duties of a notary and will discharge the duties of the office to the best of your ability. Once the oath is sworn, the clerk gives you the commission. There is an additional $10 fee (as of July 2010) paid to the court clerk.
- 7). Purchase a notary stamp. Notary stamps are available from most office supply stores. You can also purchase a stamp online. The Secretary of the Commonwealth does not provide notary seals or endorse specific seal manufacturers.
Source: ...