West Virginia NotaryPublic Bond

According to W. Va. Code §39-4-4, West Virginia requires a $5,000 notary bond. This one-time premium covers your entire commission period. Most applicants qualify for instant approval.

West Virginia notary commissions are valid for 10 years, the longest term of any state in the United States. This extended term reduces administrative burden and renewal costs compared to states with 4-year or 5-year terms. You must renew before expiration by obtaining a new bond, filing with your county clerk, and taking a new oath of office.

West Virginia notary bonds are filed at the county level, not with the state. You must file your $1,000 bond with the clerk of the county commission in the county where you reside. Each of West Virginia's 55 counties has its own clerk's office that processes notary applications. Contact your county clerk for specific filing procedures and hours.

No. West Virginia does not require notary applicants to pass an examination or complete mandatory education courses. The straightforward requirements include being at least 18 years old, a West Virginia resident, able to read and write English, and posting a $1,000 bond. This accessibility makes West Virginia one of the easiest states for notary commissioning.

Yes, easily. West Virginia notary bonds typically qualify for instant approval regardless of credit score. The small $1,000 bond amount and low risk profile mean surety companies readily issue these bonds to virtually all applicants. Even with poor credit, you should have no problem obtaining bonding for just $40-75 for 10 years.

No state-level application fee exists for West Virginia notary commissions. However, your county clerk may charge a small filing fee (typically $10-20) when you file your bond and oath of office. This county fee varies by jurisdiction, so contact your local clerk's office for specific costs. The total startup cost including bond, seal, and county fees is typically under $100 for a 10-year commission.

West Virginia law does not require notaries to maintain a journal of notarial acts, though it is strongly recommended as a best practice. Many notaries voluntarily keep detailed journals to document their work, protect against liability claims, and maintain professional records. If you handle high-value transactions or work as a loan signing agent, maintaining a journal is essential for professional credibility and personal protection.

Yes. West Virginia authorized remote online notarization through emergency orders during COVID-19, and the practice has been codified into permanent law. West Virginia notaries can register to perform RON after completing approved training and using compliant technology platforms. Remote notarization expands your service area beyond West Virginia's mountainous geography and allows you to serve clients anywhere in the state electronically.