Maryland Notary Fees and Maximum Allowable Charges

Maryland strictly regulates the fees notaries may charge, and understanding these limits is essential for legal compliance and professional integrity. 

This article explains the maximum allowable fees, the acts to which they apply, travel-related charges, and the essential ethical expectations that guide how notaries communicate and collect fees.

Maximum Fees for Standard Notarial Acts

Maryland sets a uniform fee limit for all in-person notarial acts. Before breaking down individual categories, it’s essential to understand that these limits apply across acknowledgments, jurats, oaths, affirmations, and signature witnessing. The state does not differentiate fees based on the type of act, only whether it is performed in person or remotely.

In-Person Notarial Acts

Maryland permits notaries to charge up to $8 for each traditional (in-person) notarial act. This applies per act, not per document, meaning each legally distinct notarization may be charged separately.

Multiple Copies of the Same Document

When a signer requires several identical copies of the same document to be notarized during the same appointment, Maryland permits notaries to charge $8 for the first copy’s signature and $4 for each additional signature on identical copies signed simultaneously by the same person.

Maximum Fees for Remote Notarial Acts

Remote online notarization has its own fee category in Maryland. Before reviewing the details, keep in mind that remote notarizations must follow strict state rules, approved technology standards, and identity verification procedures.

Remote Online Notarial Acts

Maryland notaries may charge up to $30 for each remote notarial act. This covers the notarial act itself, even if the remote session is longer or requires additional troubleshooting.

Platform or Vendor Fees

Some RON platforms charge extra technology or service fees to the signer. These charges must be clearly separated from the notary’s own fee to ensure the notary does not exceed the $30 legal maximum.

Fees for Copies, Records, and Journal Certifications

Maryland allows notaries to charge for certain copy-related services. Before detailing these, remember that these fees apply only when someone requests records related to a notarization or journal entry, not as built-in service fees.

Photocopies of Notarized Records

A notary may charge up to $2 per copy when providing a reproduction of a notarized document or of a notary journal entry.

Certified Copies of Journal Records

For certified copies of journal entries, the maximum fee is $6 per certified journal record.

Travel Fees and Mileage Reimbursement

Maryland notaries may charge travel fees, but only within well-defined limits. Before exploring each option, note that all travel-related charges must be disclosed and agreed on before the notary travels to the signer.

Mileage Reimbursement

Notaries may charge the IRS standard mileage rate, which changes annually. This rate must match the official IRS rate in effect at the time of travel and cannot be rounded up or adjusted.

Additional Travel Fee

In addition to mileage, Maryland permits an extra travel fee of up to $5 when travel is required to perform a notarial act.

Ethical Guidance on Transparency and Fair Charging Practices

Beyond Maryland’s legal maximums, ethical conduct plays a major role in preventing complaints and maintaining public trust. 

Provide Clear Fee Information Before Service

Notaries should give signers a written or digital fee schedule before performing any services. Clear communication prevents confusion and promotes professionalism.

Itemize All Charges Separately

Each charge, whether for a notarial act, mileage, travel fee, or copies, should be listed separately. Itemization protects both the signer and the notary.

Be Consistent and Avoid Improper Extra Fees

Notaries may not charge administrative fees, document handling fees, after-hours fees, or any other add-ons that would increase the notarial fee beyond the legal maximums.

Maryland Notary Fee Summary Chart

Service	Maximum Fee Allowed	Notes
In-person notarial act	$8 per act	Applies to acknowledgments, jurats, oaths, and affirmations
Remote notarial act	$30 per act	Requires approved remote technology
First copy of an identical document	$8 per signature	Same signer, same appointment
Additional identical copies	$4 per signature	Must be identical documents
Photocopy of notarized record	Up to $2 per copy	Includes record or journal entry
Certified journal record	$6 per certified copy	Separate from the photocopy fee
Mileage reimbursement	IRS business rate	Must match the current IRS rate
Additional travel fee	Up to $5	Only when travel is required

Closing Reminder

Notary Public Association is committed to helping Maryland notaries stay fully compliant with state law. By following the state’s fee structure, practicing clear communication, and maintaining accurate records, notaries can uphold both legal and ethical standards. Our association provides resources, updates, and professional guidance to ensure Maryland notaries remain confident and compliant in their work.