HOW DOES NOTARIZATION WORK? (Step-by-Step in Virginia)
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How Does Notarization Work? (Virginia Step-by-Step)
Whether you’re in Fredericksburg, Stafford, or Spotsylvania, here’s exactly what will happen at your appointment—so you can breeze through it.Before Your Appointment
1) Confirm the required notarial act
Ask the recipient which one they need:
Acknowledgment Jurat (Oath/Affirmation) Copy Certification (non-public docs only)2) Gather ID & documents
- Valid government-issued photo ID (driver’s license, passport, etc.).
- The full document (all pages). Leave signature blank for jurats.
- Any required witnesses (or ask us about credible-witness options).
3) Choose how you’ll meet
- In-person at a convenient local spot (mobile service available).
- Remote Online Notarization (RON) if eligible—ID proofing and audio-video connection required.
At the Appointment
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Verify Identity & Willingness
We check your ID and ensure you understand and are willing to sign. In some cases, a credible witness who personally knows you can help verify identity.
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Perform the Notarial Act
- Acknowledgment: You acknowledge you signed the document (signature may be earlier).
- Jurat: You take an oath or affirmation that the contents are true, then sign in our presence.
- Copy Certification: We create/supervise the copy and compare it to the original (non-public records only).
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Complete Certificate & Seal
We complete the correct Virginia notarial certificate, apply our signature and seal, and let you know any next steps (e.g., where to file or mail).
Fees (Set by Virginia)
- In-person notarial act: up to $10 per act.
- Remote Online Notarization: up to $25 per act.
- Travel fees may apply for mobile service if reasonable and pre-agreed.
After the Appointment
- Return the document as instructed (mail, upload, or file in clerk’s office if required).
- Need an apostille or authentication for use outside the U.S.? Check the Virginia Secretary of the Commonwealth’s authentications page.
Can’t be notarized: vital records and court-issued documents—request certified copies from the issuing agency.