Become a Maryland Notary
As a notary public in the State of Maryland, you have UNLIMITED financial liability on EVERY document you notarize. You do not want to take the office of Notary Public lightly. The Maryland Online Notary Course is the fastest, easiest and most affordable way for you to learn what to do and how to protect yourself as a notary. Whether you are a new or current notary public, you should spend some time learning the laws. It's less expensive than an attorney consult!
How to Become a Notary Public in Maryland
Step by Step Instructions
- Take the Maryland Online Notary Course (not required until October 1, 2021)
- An application is submitted to the Secretary of State with a non-refundable $9 application and $2 processing fee. If living in the State, must be appointed by the senator representing the district in which you live; and
if living outside the State, be a resident of a state that allows Maryland residents working in that state
to serve as notaries public in that state. - If your State Senator delegates authority to approve notary applications to the Secretary of State, approval of
the completed notary application takes approximately 2-5 business days. If approval takes longer it is likely
because one of your references has not responded or there is a problem with your application that must be
resolved before proceeding.
If your State Senator reviews and makes a determination about notary applications, it can take between 1
week and 6 weeks for notary applications to be approved. The speed and approval of applications is at the
discretion of the Senator’s office. - The appointee must pay a fee of $10.00 for the commission and $1.00 registration fee to the Clerk and take the oath of office. The appointee then receives the commission and is qualified to act as a notary public.
