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How to become a notary public in West Virginia. Commission term: 5 years. Verified 2026-04-02. Data verified 2026-04-02. Source: LicenseMap (getlicensemap.com).
Notary Public
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83% of data points are verified against official sources. 2 fields based on preliminary research. We recommend confirming details with your state's licensing authority. See sources below · Report incorrect data
5 years
Commission Term
before renewal
No
Education Required
no course needed
No
Exam Required
no exam needed
No
Bond Required
no bond needed
You must be a legal resident of West Virginia (or maintain a place of business there), be at least 18 years old, and be able to read and write English. You cannot have a disqualifying criminal record.
Submit your application to the West Virginia Secretary of State. Application fee: $52.00.
Purchase an official notary stamp or seal that meets West Virginia requirements. Typical cost: $20-$40. Total estimated startup cost: $72-$92.
Once approved, you will receive your notary commission, valid for 5 years. You can then begin performing notarial acts in West Virginia. Remote online notarization (RON) is also permitted.
Minimum Age
18 years old
Residency
Must be a resident of West Virginia, or a resident of another state who works at an office address within West Virginia.
Citizenship
Be a citizen or permanent legal resident of the United States
Background Check
Not required
Not sure if you need a notary license? Check whether your state requires one.
Education
Not RequiredNo formal education course required. Must have a high school diploma or its equivalent.
Exam
Not RequiredNo exam required.
Compare top-rated notary education providers in West Virginia.
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Surety Bond
Not RequiredBond ($1,000) eliminated effective June 3, 2018 under revised notary law (HB 4207).
Errors & Omissions Insurance
Not RequiredNot required. Optional E&O insurance recommended.
Seal / Stamp
RequiredOfficial notary seal/stamp required.
| Fee | Amount |
|---|---|
Application Fee | $52.00 |
Bond Premium Bond eliminated in 2018 | N/A |
Stamp / Seal Purchased from private vendors | $20-$40 |
Total Estimated Cost Application + seal | $72-$92 |
Use our licensing cost calculator to estimate your total investment including education and exam fees.
Complete online application at SOS website
Pay $52 application fee
Receive commission
Purchase notary seal/stamp
Commission Term
5 years
Renewal Process
Submit a new online recommission application via the Enterprise Registration & Licensing System (ERLS) before expiration.
Renewal Fee
$52.00
Regulatory Board
West Virginia authorizes remote online notarization.
Additional Requirements
Must comply with WV RON requirements.
What Makes West Virginia Unique
West Virginia eliminated the bond requirement in 2018. Requires high school diploma or equivalent.
Bond eliminated in 2018.
Must have high school diploma or equivalent.
5-year commission term.
Application is entirely online.
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