Step‑by‑Step: How Remote Online Notarization Works in Virginia

While each notary may use a slightly different platform, the basic steps are similar:

Schedule Your Online Appointment
- You choose a date and time that works for you.
- Many notaries, including mobile and remote notaries, offer same‑day or after‑hours options to fit your schedule.
Verify Your Identity Online
Before or during the session, you’ll go through an identity check.
This may include answering security questions and uploading or showing your ID to the camera.
The goal is to confirm that you are who you say you are, just like in an in‑person notarization.
Connect with the Notary by Video
At your appointment time, you join a secure video session.
The notary will greet you, confirm your identity again, and make sure you understand the document and are signing willingly.
Review and Sign the Document Electronically
You’ll see your document on the screen.
When instructed, you’ll sign electronically—usually by clicking, typing your name, or using a digital signature tool.
The notary watches you sign in real time, just as they would in person.
The Notary Signs and Applies an Electronic Seal
After you sign, the notary adds their electronic signature and official seal.
They also complete any required notarial wording and record the details of the notarization.
Receive Your Notarized Document
Once everything is complete, you receive a secure, notarized copy of your document—often as a PDF.
You can download, print, or send it to whoever needs it (such as a lender, attorney, or business partner).

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