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How to Become a Notary in Maryland: Step-by-Step Guide (2026)
From the waterfront offices of Baltimore to the bustling government buildings in Annapolis, notaries public play a quiet but essential role in Maryland's legal and business ecosystem. Whether you're looking to add a professional credential to your resume, support your employer's daily operations, or start a mobile notary side hustle serving communities across the Old Line State, becoming a Maryland notary is one of the most accessible professional goals you can set. The process won't drain your wallet or eat up months of your time — but there are a few specifics worth getting right the first time. This guide walks you through everything you need to know, from eligibility requirements to filing your oath, based on current information from the Maryland Secretary of State and the National Notary Association.
Disclaimer: Notary laws change periodically. Always verify current requirements with the Maryland Secretary of State's office before applying. This article does not constitute legal advice.
Who Can Become a Notary in Maryland?
Maryland keeps the barrier to entry refreshingly low, but you do need to check a few basic boxes before you apply:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Be a resident of Maryland (or employed in MD) — this is worth highlighting, since Maryland extends eligibility to out-of-state residents who work within the state
- Have no felony convictions unless pardoned
If you've got a clean record (or a pardon on file) and either live or work in Maryland, you're generally good to go.
What You'll Need
Before diving into the application, take a moment to gather what you'll need upfront. Having everything ready keeps the process smooth:
- A valid government-issued photo ID
- The $20 filing fee
That's honestly it for the application itself. Maryland doesn't require you to complete a training course or pass an exam before applying, which sets it apart from states like California or New York. That said, we'd still encourage you to educate yourself on proper notarization procedures — mistakes can carry real consequences even if the state didn't require formal training.
Step 1: Complete the Application
Submit your notary application to the Maryland Secretary of State with your full legal name, residential address, and county of residence. Double-check every detail before hitting submit, especially your name — this is the name that will appear on your commission and your notary stamp, so it needs to match exactly what's on your identification.
Step 2: Receive Your Commission
Processing typically takes 2-4 weeks. Once approved, you'll receive your commission certificate. This is the official document that confirms your authority to act as a notary public in Maryland, so hold onto it — you may need it when filing your oath or ordering your supplies.
Your commission is valid for four years, which gives you a solid runway before you need to think about renewal.
Step 3: Get Your Notary Supplies
- A Maryland notary stamp — must meet state requirements exactly. Don't just grab any stamp online; make sure it's specifically designed and formatted for Maryland notaries. Using an incorrect stamp format can lead to rejected documents and potential complaints.
- A notary record book (journal) — while not mandated by state law, keeping one is strongly recommended. If a notarization is ever challenged, your journal is often your best defense. Think of it as a small investment that could save you from a significant headache down the road.
Step 4: File Your Oath of Office
This is the step that trips up more new Maryland notaries than any other, so pay close attention: within 30 days of receiving your commission, you must take the oath of office and file it with the appropriate county office. This step is mandatory — not optional, not "whenever you get around to it."
If you miss that 30-day window, your commission can become void, and you'd need to start the whole process over again. The county filing fee is typically $10-20, so bring a little cash or your checkbook when you head to the courthouse or county clerk's office.
Common Mistakes New Maryland Notaries Make
Learning from others' missteps can save you time, money, and frustration. Here are the big ones to watch for:
- Not filing the oath within 30 days — as mentioned above, this is the most consequential mistake. Your commission may become void, and there's usually no grace period.
- Using an incorrect stamp format — your stamp must meet Maryland's specific requirements exactly. A stamp designed for Virginia or Pennsylvania won't cut it, and using it could mean your notarizations get challenged.
- Letting your commission expire — reappointment can take weeks, so don't wait until the last minute. Set a reminder for about 60 days before your expiration date.
- Notarizing without the signer physically present — this is grounds for revocation in Maryland. Even with remote online notarization available (more on that below), a traditional notarization requires the signer to be right in front of you.
How Much Does It Cost?
One of the best things about becoming a notary in Maryland is how affordable it is. Here's a realistic breakdown:
- Application fee: $20
- Notary stamp: $15-30
- Notary journal: $15-25
- County filing fee: $10-20
Total estimated cost: $60-$95
That covers everything from start to finish. Compare that to the cost of almost any other professional credential, and it's a remarkably accessible path.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to become a notary in Maryland?
The process typically takes 2-4 weeks from application to having your supplies and filed oath. Most of that time is just waiting for the Secretary of State to process your application. Once you receive your commission, the rest — ordering supplies and filing your oath — can usually be done in a day or two if you stay on top of it.
Can I perform remote notarizations?
Yes, Maryland authorizes remote online notarization (RON). You'll need to use an approved technology platform that complies with the state's requirements, and there are additional rules around identity verification and recording the session. It's a great option to offer, especially in a state where traffic between Baltimore, the DC suburbs, and the Eastern Shore can make in-person meetings a hassle.
Do I need errors & omissions insurance?
Not required by Maryland law, but strongly recommended to protect yourself financially. E&O insurance covers you if you make an honest mistake during a notarization and someone sues. Without it, you'd be paying legal costs out of pocket. Policies are surprisingly affordable — often just a few dollars per month — and the peace of mind is well worth it.
How do I renew my commission?
Begin the reappointment process before your current commission expires. The process is similar to the initial application. You'll submit a new application and fee to the Secretary of State, and once approved, you'll go through the same steps of receiving your commission, getting new supplies if needed, and filing your oath with the county.
Can a Maryland notary charge fees?
Yes, up to $4 per notarization. That may not sound like much per signing, but if you're doing loan signings or serving as a mobile notary, you can typically charge additional travel fees — making it a legitimate way to earn extra income, especially in higher-demand areas like Montgomery County or the Baltimore metro.
State-Specific Notes
- Remote notarization: Maryland allows remote online notarization (RON), joining the majority of states that have embraced digital notarization. If you plan to offer RON services, make sure you understand the technology and identity verification requirements before your first session.
- Journal not required: Maryland does not mandate a notary journal, though keeping one is strongly recommended. Some notaries skip it to save a few bucks, but most experienced Maryland notaries will tell you that's a penny-wise, pound-foolish decision.
Becoming a notary in Maryland is straightforward, affordable, and genuinely useful — whether you're supporting a workplace need or building something bigger. Get your application in, don't forget that oath filing deadline, and you'll be officially notarizing before you know it.
Ready for the next step?
Notary Signing Agent Academy — loan signing agents in Maryland earn $75–$200 per appointment. The most comprehensive training available.
RON Pro: Remote Online Notarization — Maryland supports remote notarization. Learn how to notarize documents online and reach clients anywhere.
How to Start a Mobile Notary Business — turn your Maryland notary commission into a profitable business.
How to Market Your Notary Business — get clients from day one with proven strategies.
How to Become a Notary — our complete guide covering requirements for all 50 states.
