State-Specific Laws and Regulations Flashcards

Under West Virginia law, which state official is responsible for commissioning notaries public?

Answer: The Secretary of State

West Virginia Code §39-4-21 gives the Secretary of State authority to commission notaries public.

How long is the term of a notary public commission in West Virginia?

Answer: 5 years

A West Virginia notary commission is issued for a term of five years.

What is the minimum age requirement to become a notary public in West Virginia?

Answer: 18 years old

West Virginia requires notary applicants to be at least 18 years of age.

Which of the following would disqualify an applicant from receiving a West Virginia notary commission?

Answer: A felony conviction involving dishonesty that has not been addressed

West Virginia may deny a commission to applicants convicted of a felony or a crime involving fraud, dishonesty, or deceit.

A West Virginia notary charges $12 to take an acknowledgment. Is this permissible?

Answer: No, because the maximum fee per notarial act is $10

West Virginia caps the fee for a notarial act at $10, so $12 exceeds the legal maximum.

Under West Virginia law, a notary's official stamp must include which of the following?

Answer: The notary's name, the words 'Notary Public' and 'State of West Virginia', and the commission expiration date

The official stamp must show the notary's name, title, jurisdiction, and commission expiration date as required by state law.

May a nonresident of West Virginia obtain a West Virginia notary commission?

Answer: Yes, if they are employed or carry on a trade, business, or practice in West Virginia

West Virginia allows nonresidents who have a place of employment or practice in the state to be commissioned as notaries.