Frequently Asked Questions About Maryland Notary Law

for members and future members of the Notary Public Association

Maryland’s notary laws are designed to protect the public and maintain trust in notarized documents. Whether you are applying for the first time or renewing your commission, understanding the rules helps you perform your duties accurately. 

This FAQ compiles the most frequently asked questions about becoming a notary, maintaining compliance, handling seals and journals, and performing remote notarizations.

Use this guide as a clear and practical reference, informed by official Maryland requirements and real-world notary practice.

Becoming A Maryland Notary

Maryland has specific qualification standards for notaries, including age, residency or employment criteria, and expectations of good character. Anyone looking to apply must follow the state’s application steps and meet training requirements. These rules are in place to ensure all notaries understand their responsibilities and can protect the public against fraud.

The FAQs below explain the most important aspects of eligibility, education, and what new applicants must prepare before submitting their applications.

What Are The Basic Eligibility Requirements?

Applicants must be at least 18, of good moral character, and either a Maryland resident or someone whose primary place of employment is located in Maryland. Residents are appointed by the state senator for their legislative district, while out-of-state applicants must live in a state that grants reciprocity. A government-issued ID and references are required for the online application.

What Training Does Maryland Require?

Maryland requires all notary applicants to complete a state-authorized education course. New applicants must also pass an exam from an approved provider and upload their training and exam certificates during the application process. Renewal applicants must also complete updated training.

Renewing Your Commission

Notary commissions in Maryland last four years and renewals must be completed within the state’s defined window. Renewal is not automatic, and missing the deadline means starting again as a new applicant. Understanding the timing and steps helps ensure your commission remains active without interruption.

The process includes completing updated training, submitting your renewal online, and taking your oath before the Clerk of the Circuit Court. Your commission only becomes valid after the oath is taken, even if your online renewal has been approved.

How Does The Renewal Process Work?

You may renew beginning 60 days before your commission expires and up to 30 days after expiration. Renewal includes completing a state-authorized course, submitting your renewal application online, paying the required fees, and appearing before the Circuit Court to take the oath of office.

What Happens If I Miss The Renewal Deadline?

If you do not renew within the allowed window, you must apply as a new notary, which includes completing the education course and exam required for new applicants.

Seal And Stamping Device Rules

Maryland requires every notary to use a stamping device that meets specific state standards. Your stamp must be legible, reproducible, and include required identifying information. Notaries are fully responsible for securing their stamp and preventing unauthorized use.

Understanding these rules helps protect your commission and ensures the validity of your notarizations. If your device is ever lost or stolen, you must notify the Secretary of State immediately to prevent potential misuse.

What Information Must My Notary Stamp Display?

Your stamp must include your name as commissioned, the words Notary Public, the county where you were commissioned, and your commission expiration date unless the certificate contains it elsewhere. The stamp may be inked, embossed, or electronic, but it must always be reproducible.

What Are The Security Requirements For My Stamp?

You must keep your stamping device secure at all times. It cannot be shared or used by anyone else. When your commission ends or is revoked, your stamp must be disabled or destroyed, and any loss or theft must be reported promptly.

Notary Journal Rules

Maryland requires notaries to maintain a journal for all notarial acts. Proper journaling creates a reliable record that protects both you and the public. Paper journals must be bound with numbered pages, while electronic journals must be secure and tamper-evident.

All journals must be kept for ten years after the last entry. Journals cannot be shared, and if one is ever lost or stolen, the Secretary of State must be notified.

What Must Be Recorded In Each Journal Entry?

Entries must include the date and time of the notarization, type of act performed, signer information, document description, the method and details of identification, whether the signing was in person or remote, and any fees charged. Remote notarizations must also indicate the communication technology used.

Can I Use An Electronic Journal?

Yes. Electronic journals are allowed as long as they meet Maryland’s security standards and can be retained for ten years. Many notaries choose electronic journals when performing remote online notarizations.

Remote Online Notarization

Maryland authorizes Remote Online Notarization (RON), allowing a notary physically located in Maryland to notarize documents for remotely located individuals. RON requires real-time audio-video communication, proper identity verification, and secure storage of recordings.

To perform RON, a notary must submit the Remote Notary Notification Form and select approved RON vendors. Authorization must be renewed each time your notary commission renews.

What Are The Requirements For Performing RON?

You must verify the signer’s identity using approved methods and use technology that supports two-way audio-video communication. The entire notarization must be recorded and retained for ten years. Your notarial certificate must indicate that the act was performed remotely.

How Do I Become Authorized For RON?

You must complete the Remote Notary Notification Form on the state portal and choose approved RON vendors. Once approved, you may begin performing remote notarizations as long as you comply with state rules and security requirements.

Start Your Maryland Training

Strong notary skills begin with strong education. Maryland’s rules continue to evolve, and proper training ensures you stay informed, accurate, and fully compliant. Quality instruction helps you avoid errors, understand your legal responsibilities, and confidently handle both traditional and remote notarizations. A clear understanding of the law protects your commission and strengthens the service you provide to the public.

Whether you are applying for the first time or preparing to renew, now is the right time to build your knowledge and confidence. Training gives you the tools to complete notarial acts correctly and professionally through every step of your four-year commission.

Enroll today in Notary Public Association’s Maryland-approved training and take the next step toward mastering your duties as a Maryland notary.