Virginia Notary Stamps – Yes! Required

According to Va. Code Ann. § 47.1-16., notaries should affix an image of their official seal near the signature inscribed on all paper documents. Do so with either an inked stamp or seal embosser.

Your stamp or embosser must produce a legible, sharp, permanent image able to be reproduced under photographic methods. So choose a dark ink for the stamp, and consider purchasing an impression inker for tandem use with embossers.

Virginia has no mandates regarding shape and dimensions of the chosen implement. Pick circular or rectangular forms. Be aware other states may have such requirements defined. Reference a corresponding guide if you plan to do business outside Virginia.

Your official seal will include (at minimum) the notary’s name exactly as it appears on the commission, along with the words “Notary Public” and “Commonwealth of Virginia”. The registration number and commission expiration date are not mandated to appear on the official seal, but are usually included since they must be on every valid notarial certificate executed in Virginia.  Contact an appropriate vendor for supplies and custom needs.