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About Us

About the Virginia Association of Notaries

The Virginia Association of Notaries (VAN) is a professional association dedicated to supporting notaries commissioned in the Commonwealth of Virginia.

We provide state-specific education, guidance, and community to help notaries understand their responsibilities and perform their duties correctly and confidently.

The VAN Mission Statement

The Virginia Association of Notaries’ mission is to educate, empower, and support Virginia notaries by guiding them in executing their duties following the Virginia Notary laws. We represent Virginia notaries at the local and state levels. 

Our goal is to be a trustworthy resource for notaries to learn best practices and enhance their knowledge as credible public officials

01

Professional

With the tools, education, and resources provided by the Virginia Association of Notaries, you can approach every notarization with confidence, accuracy, and professionalism.

02

Knowledgeable

Notary laws vary by state, and Virginia’s laws are uniquely detailed. We help you understand what makes Virginia different—so you can perform your duties correctly and with confidence.

03

Capable

When you understand not just what to do, but why it matters, you elevate your role as a public official.Become a VAN member and gain the knowledge and support to perform at the highest standard.

“Each and every Notary Public plays a crucial role in combating identity theft. They serve as our front line of defense and the public is safer because of the job they do.”

Ken Salazar, US Ambassador to Mexico

A Look At The Past

Since Roman Times

Notaries public hold an office which can trace its origins back to ancient Rome. They are the oldest continuing branch of the legal profession and exist throughout the whole of the world.

until the late thirteenth and fourteenth centuries as the legal system within Great Britain was derived from common law. When first introduced, English notaries were appointed by the Papal Legate and were often members of the clergy. In time, clergymen would refrain from participation within secular businesses and the position of notary public was often assumed by laymen. In 1533, the Papal Legate was abolished and the king was given the authority to appoint notary positions. Traditionally, notaries recorded matters of judicial importance as well as private transactions or events where an officially authenticated record or a document drawn up with professional skill or knowledge was required. Notary public. (2008, April 3). New World Encyclopedia, . Retrieved 01:19, October 12, 2023 from
New World Encyclopedia

The history of notaries public has its origins in the civil institutions of ancient Rome and served as a learned profession of prominence in private and public affairs. Notaries employed within the Roman Republic also coined a type of shorthand within the empire which substituted for words of common use in formal and informal transcriptions. Writers who adopted this method were termed notarius and were responsible for the recording of shorthand statements and later transcriptions of such materials into formal memoranda. The position of notary public remained a figure of importance throughout many parts of continental Europe and was maintained throughout the Dark Ages and Italian Renaissance as a central institution of law. This position remains to date within many countries that derive their legal systems from bodies of civil law. Notaries were not introduced to the United Kingdom

We Will Help You Every Step Of The Way

Starting your journey in this public office can feel confusing and intimidating—but you are not alone. Whether you’re a new notary or stepping into your role for the first time, support is available.

Reach out to us anytime. We are committed to providing guidance, education, and practical support to help you understand your responsibilities, build confidence, and succeed in your role as a public official.

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What Is Your Focus?

We Help Notaries Succeed Across Multiple Practice Areas

The needs of today’s consumers are constantly changing—and so are the opportunities for notaries. You can choose to specialize in one area or build knowledge across several to increase your skills, confidence, and earning potential. We’re here to help you understand each path and succeed in the one that fits you best.

Traditional General Notary Work

General Notary Work will always be in demand. However, performing it correctly, confidently, and professionally requires a solid understanding of notary law, proper procedures, and best practices. We help you master the fundamentals so you can avoid mistakes and build trust.

Mobile Notary Work

Taking your commission on the road can increase flexibility and income—but only if you understand pricing, expenses, and profitability. 

We provide tools and guidance to help you calculate travel fees, manage costs, and run a mobile notary service the right way.

Loan Signing Agent

Loan signings go beyond basic notarizations. There are different types of loan transactions, each with its own expectations and responsibilities. We help you understand the differences, the workflow, and whether this specialization is the right fit for you.

Remote Online Notary (RON)

Remote Online Notarization has become a powerful option for notaries nationwide. From understanding platform requirements to compliance and client expectations, we provide clear guidance to help you navigate RON confidently and legally.
"Don't be afraid to ask for help when you need it. I do that every day. Asking for help isn't a sign of weakness, it's a sign of strength. It shows you have the courage to admit when you don't know something, and to learn something new."
~ Barack Obama 9/7/2009 Wakefield HS, Arlington,VA

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