Application Fee
See agencyVerified by WV Board of Business
Notary Public Licensing in West Virginia
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for notary public in West Virginia, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 21, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
State-approved examRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Notary Public in West Virginia
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
License Type: Secondary license (another license is a prerequisite).
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
West Virginia Secretary of State
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$49,650 median (3% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#16 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Confirm eligibility prerequisites (License Type: Secondary license (another license is a prerequisite).).
- 2. Complete approved education or training requirements.
- 3. Pass required state examinations.
- 4. Submit the application to West Virginia Secretary of State and monitor board communications.
Salary Insights in West Virginia
With a median salary of $49,650, Notary Publics in West Virginia earn 3% above the national median of $48,360. West Virginia ranks #16 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+1.7%Average Weekly Wage
$1,167Median annual salary
$49,650Hourly estimate
$23.873% above national median
Difference: +$1,290
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationNotary Public Salary Ranking
#16 of 50 statesfor Notary Public median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | Maryland | $60,470 |
| #2 | California | $57,020 |
| #3 | Rhode Island | $55,370 |
| #4 | Hawaii | $54,260 |
| #5 | New Jersey | $53,940 |
Nearby States Comparison
Notary Public licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| West Virginia | $49,650 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Pennsylvania | $49,120 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Maryland | $60,470 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Virginia | $50,690 | Specific course required | No exam required | Varies by board |
| Kentucky | $47,490 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Ohio | $46,470 | Specific course required | Both state and third-party exams required | Varies by board |
License by Endorsement
Transfer requirements are state-specific. Use this quick matrix as a planning signal, then verify final endorsement rules with each board.
| State | Reciprocity Score | Tier | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| West Virginia | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Pennsylvania | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Maryland | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Virginia | 60 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Kentucky | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Ohio | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Official website verified
West Virginia Secretary of State
See official licensing board website
Phone: N/A
Related Careers in West Virginia
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Architect | $86,530 | Specific course required | Varies by board |
| Audio and Video Technicians | $58,000 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Certified Public Accountant | $74,520 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Civil Engineer | $88,200 | Degree required | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Notary Public in West Virginia?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about Varies by board, but timing can change based on education track, exam scheduling, and board processing.
What is the typical Notary Public salary in West Virginia?
The median annual salary for Notary Publics in West Virginia is $49,650. Salaries range from $35,420 (10th percentile) to $67,000 (90th percentile).
How does the Notary Public salary in West Virginia compare to the national average?
Notary Publics in West Virginia earn 3% above the national median of $48,360, with a state median of $49,650.
How many Notary Publics work in West Virginia?
West Virginia employs approximately 510 Notary Publics according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Notary Public license to West Virginia from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Notary Publics in West Virginia?
The licensing agency is West Virginia Secretary of State. Review agency details at https://apps.sos.wv.gov/business/notary/.
How often do you renew a Notary Public license in West Virginia?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.