Traditional or mobile notarization
You meet with the notary in person and sign a paper document with a wet-ink signature when required. Mobile availability depends on your location and appointment details.
Request in-person serviceVirginia notary services
Which notary service do you need?
Start with how you want to meet, then confirm which notarial act your document requires. We will review the request before confirming your appointment.
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Choose your appointment format
Three ways to receive service.
The document type, receiving organization, and signer’s circumstances may affect which option is available.
Electronic notarization—in person
The document, signature, and notary seal are electronic, but you and the electronic notary meet in the same physical location.
Request electronic serviceRemote online notarization
You and the electronic notary meet from different locations using secure live audio-video technology and approved identity-verification steps.
Request online serviceCommon notarial acts
What does your document require?
The document, receiving organization, or your attorney should tell you which notarial act is needed. A nonattorney notary cannot choose the act or provide legal advice.
1. Acknowledgment
What it is: The signer personally appears, is identified, and confirms that the signature is theirs and that the document was signed willingly for its stated purpose.
Common examples: Deeds, powers of attorney, titles, and agreements when an acknowledgment certificate is provided or requested.
2. Oath or affirmation
What it is: The notary administers a spoken promise that a statement is truthful. An oath uses a religious reference; an affirmation is a solemn, nonreligious promise. Both have the same legal effect.
Common examples: Sworn statements, testimony, and documents that require the signer to swear or affirm.
3. Affidavit or jurat
What it is: The signer personally appears, takes an oath or affirmation, and signs the written statement as required. The notary certifies that those steps occurred.
Common examples: Affidavits and other written statements that must be signed under oath.
4. Copy certification
What it is: When Virginia law permits, the notary copies or supervises copying an eligible original, compares the copy with the original, and certifies that the copy is accurate and complete.
Important limit: This service is not available for public records or documents held by a court. Certified copies of birth, death, and marriage records must come from the government office that holds the record.
5. Verification of fact
What it is: The notary verifies a fact that may lawfully be confirmed through a notarial act and completes the appropriate certificate.
Before booking: Ask the organization receiving the document what wording or certificate it requires.
This page provides general information, not legal advice. Services depend on the document, the requested notarial act, and Virginia law. Based on the authorized acts listed in Virginia Code § 47.1-12.
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